Born in 1955 in Gagnoa, in the heart of Côte d’Ivoire, Wouayou David, also known as John Kyffy, discovered his love for music in childhood by turning everyday objects into percussion. Kitchen utensils, cardboard boxes, anything within reach became drums. His life changed during a local celebration, when he caught what he calls the “drumming virus.”

Orphaned at 13, he moved north to Dikodougou in the 1970s, during the lively yéyé era. There, he quickly made a name for himself as a singer, drummer, DJ, and party organizer, hosting popular “boom parties” and performing under the name John Mayal.

In 1972, he relocated to Abidjan, where he toured with legendary orchestras and artists such as François Lougah, Daniel Sablatou, Ernesto Djédjé, and N’Dolia, after first honing his craft with local bands including Shaft, Scorpions, Black Power, and Sélection Group.

In 1982, Paris welcomed him for an intensive musical training with Xavier Descanpantrie and Jeff Kellner, forming a minimalist trio. Upon his return in 1989, his album Tchétché exploded across Côte d’Ivoire with its raw, tribal, and electrifying zêzê-pop sound, propelling John Yalley to national stardom and captivating audiences from students to woro-woro drivers.

Country: Côte d’Ivoire