Discovering the "Congolese Rumba

Known beyond the black continent, Congolese Rumba has its origins in Cuba. It remains one of the most popular music of Africa and has been quickly adapted to modern realities. So what do we know about this music and who are its main celebrities? More details through this article.

A brief history of this music

Rumba originated in Cuba and landed in the Congo in 1930. Indeed, cargo ships led by sailors from Cuba, passing through the Gulf of Guinea operate trade. The Democratic Republic of Congo and Congo Brazzaville were concerned. The Congolese thus benefited from "78 GV tours" of around 250 different titles. It was thus the focus of the propagation of this music. After this country's accession to international sovereignty, it took on other dimensions with famous names such as: Franco, Papa Noël, Wendo Kolosay, Tabu Ley, Paul Kamba and Jimmy Zakari. Then popular groups such as "Zaïko Langa Langa" including "Papa Wemba". Between 1940 and 1950 Rumba from Congo was known throughout the continent but remained at the traditional stage. From 1960 onwards it became modernised and symbolised the identity of the Congolese culture. Modernisation amplified with the insertion of modern western musical instruments.

World-Famous Celebrities

Two branches namely: Ndombolo and Soukous, are born out of Congolese Rumba. The late Papa Wemba tragically passed away in the middle of a concert in 2016 has impacted Congolese Rumba too much. The artists King Emeneya and Awilo Longomba owe their success to him. This is followed by the internationally renowned Koffi Olomide, who has quadrupled the "kora trophy". As mentioned, the group of artists "Zaïko Langa Langa" has been thrilling Africans for decades. Finally, "Extra Musica" was awarded the title of "best music group of the region" in 1999 and 2010. Not forgetting the revelation of the last five years "Fally Ipupa".