Pierrette Adams: Kizomba Queen Amplifying Social Justice
Born on May 5, 1962, in Pointe-Noire, Republic of the Congo, Pierrette Adams is a significant figure in the African music scene. Known by her nickname “Mère Z,” Adams used her powerful voice not just to entertain but to raise awareness about pressing societal issues. This blog takes a deep dive into her journey, musical […]
AFS254onMWR: The Afro-Fusion Show
Episode 254: “Mashujaa Day” 🎶 Welcome to another electrifying episode of the Afro-Fusion Show on Mawalking Radio! This is a special night, and today we’re diving into Episode 254, “Mashujaa Day,” hosted by none other than Deejay Brendan“, a.k.a. @brendothesibuor, streaming live from the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia! đź—˝ This episode is packed with […]
Sam Mangwana: The Pigeon Voyageur of Congolese Rumba
Early Life and Cultural Roots Sam Mangwana was born on February 21, 1945, in Leopoldville, now Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His mixed heritage—born to an Angolan mother and a Zimbabwean father—greatly influenced his multicultural musical style. This background not only exposed him to various African musical traditions but also […]
Franco Luambo Makiadi: Celebrating the Legacy of the “Sorcerer of the Guitar” 35 Years After His Passing
The Grand MaĂ®tre of Congolese Music François Luambo Luanzo Makiadi, known to the world as Franco, was a towering figure in Congolese and African music. Born on July 6, 1938, and passing on October 12, 1989, Franco’s influence extended far beyond the music stage. He was the driving force behind TPOK Jazz (Tout Puissant Orchestre […]
Franco Luambo: Celebrating His Legacy 35 Years Later
The Grand MaĂ®tre of Congolese Music François Luambo Luanzo Makiadi, known to the world as Franco, was a towering figure in Congolese and African music. Born on July 6, 1938, and passing on October 12, 1989, Franco’s influence extended far beyond the music stage. He was the driving force behind TPOK Jazz (Tout Puissant Orchestre […]
The Birth of a Legend: Papa Noel Nedule’s Early Life
Born Antoine Nedule Monswet on December 25, 1940, in Leopoldville (now Kinshasa), Papa Noel’s stage name reflects his Christmas Day birth. Growing up in the bustling capital of the Belgian Congo, Papa Noel was exposed to a rich tapestry of African music, as well as the Cuban sounds that heavily influenced Congolese rumba. His upbringing […]
Ngouma Lokito: A Master of the Bass
Ngouma Lokito, born Shungu Omba in Lumumbashi, Congo (DRC), is a name synonymous with power and mastery over the bass guitar. His journey through Congolese Music began in 1977, playing with a local group called “Ndjili.” Over the years, he evolved into one of the most recognized bassists in African Music, earning the nickname “Ngouma […]
Innoss’B: The AfroCongo Sensation Leading a New Wave of Congolese Music
Introduction to Innoss’B: The Jeune Leader Innocent Didace Balume, better known as Innoss’B, is a dynamic Congolese artist whose multifaceted career has reshaped the landscape of African Music. Born on May 5, 1997, in Goma, North Kivu Province, Innoss’B’s contributions as a singer, songwriter, rapper, dancer, and philanthropist have earned him accolades on the global […]
Barbara Kanam: The African Diva Who Defined Congolese Music
Introduction to Barbara Kanam Barbara Kanam Mutund, better known by her stage name Barbara Kanam, is one of the most celebrated figures in Congolese music. Born on September 27, 1973, in Bukavu, ZaĂŻre (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), Kanam is a multifaceted artist—singer-songwriter, music producer, actress, and philanthropist. She has earned a reputation […]
Extra Musica: Pioneers of Ndombolo and Congolese Rumba
Origins and Formation in Brazzaville Extra Musica was founded in the vibrant OuenzĂ© district of Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, in August 1993. This groundbreaking band was established by Roga Roga, EspĂ© Bass, Kila Mbongo, Durell Loemba, Guy-Guy Fall, Ramatoulaye Ngolali, and Quentin Moyascko, most of whom were childhood friends, classmates, and neighbors. Prior to […]