“I like starting from a feeling, moment or a person, a sound that takes me somewhere” Massuma interview

Massuma’s rise feels both inevitable and unexpected. His breakout track Contesto, a hypnotic, emotionally charged cut that’s as rhythmically rich as it is quietly anthemic, seemed to take on a life of its own, gaining traction long before it officially landed on VOD. But behind that surge is an artist with deep roots and a slow-burn approach.

From early grime production and hip hop circuits to his current Afro house-infused sound, Massuma’s path has been shaped by instinct, memory, and a clear sense of sonic identity. As he steps into a new chapter with Sikasso on MoBlack Records, we caught up to talk transitions, tension, and trusting the process.

When you were making Contesto, did it feel like one of those tracks that could take on a life of its own, or was its impact a surprise?

When I was making Contesto, I knew there was something special about it. The melody and vocals just stuck in my head from the start. But I didn’t expect it to blow up the way it did. Seeing it take on a life of its own, with people singing along before it was even officially released, was definitely a surprise.

What led you to step away from the hip hop circuit and start building something new? Was it a gradual shift or more of a clean break?

It was gradual. I loved that world and still do, it gave me a lot. But after a while, I wanted to explore more sonically, to make music that had more space and emotion. Afro house gave me that. It wasn’t about leaving hip hop behind, it was about evolving into something that felt closer to where I’m at now.

Looking back at your early years producing grime and DJing parties, how much of that foundation still feeds into what you’re doing now?

A lot, actually. Grime taught me how to create tension and rhythm with very little, that stripped-back power. It’s the same mentality I have now. Even when I’m making something more melodic or emotional, that early energy is still in there somewhere.

There’s a strong emotional thread running through Contesto. What usually comes first for you in the studio, rhythm, melody, or memory?

Usually memory. I like starting from a feeling, moment or a person, a sound that takes me somewhere. Contesto came from that place. The sample came from a song my first girlfriend showed me, and the emotion around that became the foundation. Once that’s there, the rhythm and melody just fall into place.

Your sound brings together quite a wide spectrum of influences. Do you think about contrast when you’re creating, or does that blend come more instinctively?

It’s instinctive. I grew up around so many styles of music that it all blends without me thinking about it. Grime, hip hop, African rhythms, house music, Latin sounds. When I’m creating, I’m not trying to mix them on purpose, I just follow what feels right.

You’ve been part of a duo, worked the hip hop scene, and now you’re fully focused on this solo path. How have those different phases shaped how you approach collaboration and control?

They’ve all been important. Being part of a duo or DJing for other artists teaches you how to listen and adapt. Going solo taught me to trust my own instincts. I still love collaborating, but now I know how to protect my sound and stay true to my direction.

How did the relationship with VOD come about, and what made you feel like that was the right place to put out your debut?

I met Rampa at the Cannes Film Festival after one of his sets. He was really open and took the time to chat. I might have told him I spoke German to keep the conversation going, which wasn’t exactly true, but it worked. I sent him “Contesto” and “Lady Luck” over WhatsApp, and as soon as he heard “Contesto,” he said he wanted to sign it.

Your next single Sikasso ft. Nahawa Doumbia is landing on MoBlack Records this month. How does it connect to where you’re headed sonically?

Sikasso feels like the next step. It keeps that same rhythm and groove but it’s more refined and emotional. I want each release to show another side of what I can do, while keeping the same heartbeat running through all of it.

Things are clearly picking up, gigs, support, upcoming releases. How do you keep the focus on growth rather than just chasing momentum?

By staying grounded. I don’t want to rush anything. I’m focused on improving with every release and every set. If the music is honest, the rest will follow.

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