By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Derant Suh, widely known as Diri45, is a native of Bafut in the Northwest Region of Cameroon who was born in Muyuka in the Southwest Region. As the founder of 45 Records, this passionate music entrepreneur is on a mission to bring Cameroonian talent to the global stage.
A lifelong music lover, Diri45 first recorded music at age 12 but was forced to abandon his dream due to life’s challenges. Years later, with renewed resources and determination, he returned to the music scene with a clear purpose: to help others realize their dreams so that no hidden talents are lost, as his once was.
His mission is straightforward. “We don’t go for ready-made talent,” he explains. “We find those who can’t even afford studio sessions, build them, mold them, and teach them until they are ready to be seen by the world.”
Despite the significant challenges within Cameroon’s music industry—such as the high costs of promotions, video shoots, and features without immediate financial returns—Diri45 perseveres. His passion for the culture drives him forward with one goal in mind: “to take Cameroonian music across borders. We’ve been enclosed for too long. Now, we will be heard worldwide.”
Under the 45 Records label, Diri45 has already worked on several impactful projects, including the first-ever 45 Records project, “Coup D’état” (featuring Yung Time & Tahbax). This was followed by “Rise” (featuring Yung Time & Tahbax), and “Juju” (featuring Chefor & Tahbax). His first artist, Sneh Dem, who was featured on “Rise,” is now preparing for a solo project.
Diri45’s own journey has been one of resilience. After briefly attending the University of Buea, financial difficulties forced him to drop out. He hustled, traveled, and eventually pursued a degree in Finance and Credit in Belarus before returning home to Cameroon.
Now based in Buea, Derant Suh and his team are working tirelessly to elevate young artists. His story proves that with vision, dedication, and a strong sense of community, Cameroonian music has the potential to break global barriers and achieve worldwide recognition.
