Passion or Profession: Musician

Period: 1943–

Born in Aouta, Akendengué moved to France at the age of 22. There he pursued a musical career while completing a PhD in psychology. By the 1970s, he was beginning to enjoy popularity as a singer and songwriter in France. He returned to Gabon in 1985, settling in Libreville. Politically charged lyrics and rich storytelling have distinguished many of his albums. He co-produced the acclaimed 1995 album Lambarena, which combined Pygmy chants with Bach cantatas. He remains at the forefront of Gabonese music.