Extra Musica: Pioneers of Ndombolo and Congolese Rumba
Origins and Formation in Brazzaville Extra Musica was founded in the vibrant Ouenzé district of Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, in August 1993. This groundbreaking band was established by Roga Roga, Espé Bass, Kila Mbongo, Durell Loemba, Guy-Guy Fall, Ramatoulaye Ngolali, and Quentin Moyascko, most of whom were childhood friends, classmates, and neighbors. Prior to […]
Mose Fan Fan: Congolese Soukous Pioneer
Mose Se Sengo, widely known as Mose Fan Fan, was a Congolese guitarist, composer, and bandleader who left an indelible mark on the African music scene. Born in Léopoldville (now Kinshasa) in 1945, his musical journey spanned over five decades, contributing significantly to the evolution of Congolese Rumba and Soukous. From his early days in […]
Women in Congolese Music: A Spotlight on Female Pioneers
The Underrated Role of Women in Congolese Music While many of the most celebrated names in Congolese music are male—such as Franco Luambo Makiadi and Papa Wemba—women have played an equally vital role in shaping the genre’s history. From vocalists to composers, they have contributed to the richness and diversity of Congolese music, often bringing […]
Roga Roga: A Musical Powerhouse from Congo
Early Life and Musical Beginnings Roga Roga, born Ibambi Okombi Rogatien on August 31, 1974, in Owando, Republic of the Congo, has emerged as one of the most influential figures in Congolese music. His early exposure to music began in a Catholic choir, where he developed a passion for singing and playing the guitar. This […]
AFS253onMWR: The Afro-Fusion Show
🎧 Welcome to the Afro-Fusion Show: Madilu System Tribute Pt II. Get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting rhythms of Congolese Rumba as we pay tribute to one of its gentle giants—MadiluSystem. The Afro-Fusion Show, hosted by the one and only Deejay Brendan, also known as “The RumbaNChill maestro,” is here to take you […]
Remembering Dr. Nico: A Congolese Music Pioneer
Early Life and Musical Beginnings Nicolas Kasanda wa Mikalay, known as Dr. Nico, was born on July 7, 1939, in Mikalayi, Belgian Congo. Although he initially trained as a technical teacher, Dr. Nico’s passion for music was influenced by his family, leading him to pursue a career in guitar. By the age of 14, his […]
The Musical Odyssey of Wuta Mayi: Congolese Rumba Icon
Early Life and Education Gaspard Wuta Mayi, professionally known as Wuta Mayi, was born on August 9, 1949, in Leopoldville (now Kinshasa), Democratic Republic of the Congo. From a young age, Wuta Mayi was surrounded by music, encouraged by a family that recognized and nurtured his artistic talents. His formal education began at Josephine Charlotte […]
AFS252onMWR: The Afro-Fusion Show
🎧 Welcome to “Rumba Emotion” on Mawalking Radio! 🌍 Step into the vibrant world of Afro-Fusion with “Rumba Emotion,” a show that celebrates the rich musical heritage of Congolese Rumba. Streaming live from the Mawalking Radio Studios, this show is your gateway to the heart and soul of Africa’s most beloved rhythms. 🎙 Meet Your […]
The Musical Odyssey of Congolese Sensation: Samba Mapangala
Early Life and Musical Beginnings Samba Mapangala was born in Matadi, in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. His journey into music began in the early 1970s when he moved to Kinshasa to complete his secondary education. In this vibrant city, Samba immersed himself in the bustling music scene, where he joined several […]
Remembering Jean Serge Essous: A Congolese Musical Icon
Early Life and Musical Beginnings Jean Serge Essous was born in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, in 1935. From an early age, he was drawn to music, beginning his career as a flutist in 1951. His initial foray into the world of music laid the groundwork for what would become a remarkable career. As he […]