Kery James

Born Alix Mathurin, Kery James is a French rapper and producer, born in 1977 in Guadeloupe. While still young, he left his native island to settle in the Paris suburbs, in the town of Orly. It was on the streets, with his new friends, that Kery James discovered rap. His musical career was launched after meeting the rising French hip‑hop artist MC Solaar, who had him record his first album. He began performing under the name Kery B before adopting the name Kery James. A son of the suburbs, Kery James released his debut album in 2001, titled “Si c’était à refaire,” on the Warner Music France label. Gradually he established himself within the French rap scene, making an impact with his concerts. A prolific artist, Kery James released five albums between 2001 and 2009, often featuring artists such as Passi, Rohff and Kool Shen. Deeply committed to suburban youth, he returned in 2013 with the album “Dernier MC,” which he promoted through an extensive series of concerts. In 2013 he was also booked for major French festivals such as Solidays and the Eurockéennes de Belfort.