Fact: Benjamin Epps can rap. With his clear voice, rich vocabulary and flow variations, he has mastered it all. In 2023, he released his debut album La Grande Désillusion, which confirmed the upward trajectory of his career with rave reviews. On his debut, he stands firmly alongside MC Solaar, Josman, Angélique Kidjo and even Styles P (The LOX). After a show at Olympia in November 2023, Epps retires to work on his second album. The release of L'Enfant Sacré de Bellevue is scheduled for 31 January 2025. On that new album, Epps brings a poignant vision of his native Gabon, his personal trajectory and his surroundings.
L'Enfant Sacré de Bellevue consists of 12 tracks and deals with deep themes related to the artist's difficult childhood in a deprived district of Libreville, while reflecting his new status as a reference figure for his country's youth. The powerful intro with Abd Al Malik reminds us of the extent to which environment plays an essential role in childhood and the fulfilment of a dream. A perfectly controlled plea that encourages deep reflection. On certain songs, Epps displays his technical talent and mastery of punchlines. Other songs, in turn, testify to his introspection on his difficult past that he finds hard to let go of. Poverty, domestic violence, greed and lack of references are all themes he develops and maintains throughout the album.