DS Pop presents ‘Espérance’, six tracks to convey Zêzê Pop

DS Pop, whose real name is Damahou Anne Nathalie, unveiled her debut project titled “Espérance” on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, featuring six tracks. The young Ivorian singer is mentored by John Kiffy, a prominent figure in Zêzê Pop, who trained her for four years with the aim of preparing a new voice for this musical genre.

The project combines musical transmission with personal narratives. The six tracks address themes such as hard work and perseverance, a tribute to the artist’s mother, her introduction to Zêzê Pop, her gratitude towards her mentor, and the theme of betrayal in romantic relationships.

DS Pop presents this debut project as a way to connect Zêzê Pop with a younger audience. She expresses her desire to “inspire the youth to take an interest in Zêzê Pop,” while also building her own universe around the rhythm popularized by her producer.

Her training encompassed several aspects: guitar, rhythm, stage presence, songwriting, and studio preparation. John Kiffy described “Espérance” as a significant milestone in his work as a producer, highlighting the artist’s commitment to long-term growth.

John Kiffy is also known by the name John Yalley. The Ivorian artist, who has adopted several stage names throughout his career, has established himself as one of the key figures associated with Zêzê Pop, a style he brought to the Ivorian scene from the late 1980s to the early 1990s.

Present at the project’s launch, Mariam Coulibaly, director of RTI 2, praised the work done on the arrangements, particularly the guitar and piano parts. She also noted room for improvement in vocal delivery, a point she sees as part of the artistic development of a singer releasing her first album.

Among the six tracks presented are songs dedicated to DS Pop’s mother, the person who introduced her to this music, and John Kiffy, who provides her artistic guidance and oversees the project’s production.