About Armand
Armand Ntep.
Cameroonian-born vocalist, composer and bandleader — the voice behind Bantuphonic and one of the most distinctive Afro fusion artists performing in the Washington, D.C. area.
The story
Two continents. One voice.
Armand Ntep stands as a distinctive vocalist and innovative composer, seamlessly blending the rich musical traditions of Cameroon with global genres to create a sound that is both authentic and contemporary.
His vocal prowess spans a remarkable range — from a silky baritone croon to pygmy-inspired syncopations and tender tenor ballads. His compositions are equally diverse, encompassing salsa jazz, reggae and the traditional lihongo rhythms native to his homeland.
Since relocating to the U.S. in 2000, Armand has collaborated with a range of artists, contributing to albums by Shahin and lending his voice to a National Geographic documentary on Liberia. Forming the Armand Ntep Band marked a milestone — a showcase for his compositions and vocal versatility.
His performances have graced the National Jazz Alliance in Baltimore, the Duke Ellington Jazz Festival in Washington and Satalla in New York. He has shared stages with luminaries like Angélique Kidjo and performed at events honoring former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Beyond music, Armand is a dedicated Goodwill Ambassador in the fight against AIDS.
Music is not just sound — it’s a voice for the soul, a force for change, and a light in the darkest corners of humanity.Armand Ntep
Career highlights.
From Cameroon to the jazz rooms and festival stages of the East Coast.
- RootsBorn and raised in Cameroon, steeped in lihongo rhythm and Bantu storytelling.
- 2000Relocates to the United States and begins collaborating across genres — including contributions to albums by Shahin.
- ScreenLends his voice to a National Geographic documentary on Liberia.
- The bandForms the Armand Ntep Band to bring his compositions — salsa jazz, reggae and lihongo — to the stage.
- StagesNational Jazz Alliance (Baltimore), Duke Ellington Jazz Festival (Washington), Satalla (New York) and Blues Alley (Georgetown, D.C.).
- LegendsShares stages with Angélique Kidjo and performs at events honoring Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
- SpotlightNamed a semi-finalist in America’s Next Top Hitmaker.
- AlbumReleases Bantuphonic — seven songs including “Bon Bes”, “Liwanda” and “Sag Lihongo”.
- Feb 2026Sells out Blues Alley Jazz with special guest Memphis Gold.
- Sep 2026Headlines Africa to the Blues with Memphis Gold at the Afrika Festival in Bowie, Maryland.
Questions, answered.
The essentials about Armand, his music and booking.
Who is Armand Ntep?
Armand Ntep is a Cameroonian-born vocalist, composer and bandleader known for his Afro fusion sound. He leads the Armand Ntep Band and released the album Bantuphonic.
What kind of music does Armand Ntep play?
Afro fusion — a blend of traditional Cameroonian lihongo rhythms with salsa jazz, reggae, blues and soul. His voice ranges from a silky baritone croon to pygmy-inspired syncopations and tender tenor ballads.
Where is Armand Ntep based?
He has lived in the United States since 2000 and performs regularly across the Washington, D.C. area — including Blues Alley in Georgetown and the Afrika Festival in Bowie, Maryland — as well as in Baltimore and New York.
Who has Armand Ntep performed with?
He has shared stages with Angélique Kidjo, performed with blues icon Memphis Gold, contributed to albums by Shahin, and performed at events honoring Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
What is Armand Ntep’s latest album?
Bantuphonic — a seven-track album featuring “Bon Bes”, “Liwanda”, “Mut Binam”, “Shello”, “Sag Lihongo”, “Ning” and “Owah”. Stream it on SoundCloud and YouTube.
How do I book Armand Ntep for an event?
Use the booking form on the contact page or email bantuphonic@aol.com with your date, venue and event type. He performs at festivals, jazz clubs, private events and cultural celebrations.