Abby Surya: A Trailblazer in Congolese Music
Early Life and Musical Roots Abby Surya was born in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, where her love for music blossomed at an early age. Growing up in the vibrant musical landscape of Kinshasa, she was surrounded by the rhythmic beats of Congolese rumba and soukous, which heavily influenced her musical style. Her passion for […]
Lucie Eyenga: A Pioneer of African Rumba
Early Life in Coquelathville Born around 1934 in Coquelathville (now Mbandaka) in the Belgian Congo, Lucie Eyenga emerged from a rich cultural backdrop that would later shape her illustrious career in music. The modern-day Democratic Republic of the Congo, her birthplace, was already a melting pot of musical influences, which she absorbed and redefined as […]
Malage De Lugendo: A Voice of Congolese Soukous
Early Life and Introduction to Music Malage De Lugendo, born on December 25, 1961, in Bukavu, South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Congo-Leopoldville), is a celebrated Congolese soukous artist. Raised in a musically vibrant era, Lugendo found his passion for music at a young age. His education at Boboto College in Kinshasa placed […]
Pierre Belkos: A Vibrant Ambassador of Congolese Soukous
The Rise of a Congolese Musical Icon Pierre Belkos is a celebrated Paris-based Congolese Soukous musician whose vibrant melodies have solidified his place in the global music scene. Known for his ability to infuse traditional Congolese rhythms with modern flair, Belkos has become a symbol of cultural pride and artistic excellence. His journey began with […]
Pépé Felly Manuaku: The Guitar Maestro of Rumba
Félix Manuaku Waku, widely known as Pépé Felly Manuaku, was born on August 19, 1954, in M’banza-Kongo, in what was then Zaire Province, Angola. His early musical influences can be traced back to his family. His grandfather, Manuel d’Oliveira, was a pioneer of early Congolese music with his group San Salvador. Additionally, his uncle, Armando […]
Bopol Mansiamina: A Luminary of Soukous Music
Early Life and Musical Beginnings Born in 1949 in Congo–Kinshasa, Bopol Mansiamina, widely known as Bopol or Don Paolo, grew up surrounded by the rich musical traditions of his homeland. His early exposure to music paved the way for an illustrious career. In the 1960s, he began his journey by joining local bands, where he […]
Remembering Seguin Mignon: A Rhythmic Legacy
The Heartbeat of Wenge BCBG Seguin Mignon’s career as a drummer placed him at the core of Wenge BCBG, one of the most celebrated Congolese music groups. Led by JB Mpiana, the band became a cornerstone of modern Congolese music. Mignon’s drumming added vibrancy and complexity to their sound, creating rhythms that resonated with fans […]
AFS257onMWR: The Afro-Fusion Show Episode 257
It’s Time For Rumba Polite. 🎶 Your RumbaNChill Maestro in Action 🎶 You’re listening to another captivating episode of the
Alain Bikindou: Congolese Musician and Stylist Extraordinaire
A Glimpse into Alain Bikindou’s Musical Journey Alain Bikindou is a Congolese musician whose artistry blends cultural heritage with modern melodies. Known for his album Kongo Dia Ntotila, released in 2014, Bikindou showcases a profound connection to his roots. The album features 10 tracks, including the standout song “Mousselina,” which captivates listeners with its rhythmic […]
Mayaula Mayoni: Congolese Maestro of Music and Art
Early Life and Diverse Talents Freddy Mayaula Mayoni, born on November 6, 1946, in Léopoldville (now Kinshasa), Democratic Republic of the Congo, was a man of many talents. Before embarking on his legendary music career, he made his mark as a footballer. Playing as a left winger for Kinshasa’s AS Vita Club between 1968 and […]