As the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 dominates screens and stadiums across Australia and New Zealand, it’s impossible to ignore the striking contrast with its male counterpart. Despite the spectacular performances, the cheers and the intensity of the competition, the women’s event doesn’t attract the same attention or celebrations as the men’s World Cup. But why? Do men play better football? If the skill, passion, and tenacity displayed on the field by these female athletes are anything to go by, the answer is a resounding “no”.
Music faces a similar challenge. We all know that talent isn’t defined by gender, yet when we think about Congolese music, male voices often dominate our memories. Try naming three Congolese female singers off the top of your head. Struggling? That’s exactly the point. Today, we’re here to change that narrative.
In this article, we’re aiming to change that narrative. As we celebrate the powerful performance of women in the World Cup, let’s take a moment to tune into the sounds of DR Congo, to recognize, celebrate and amplify the forgotten heroines of its music scene.
Background of Congolese Music
Congolese music is a beautiful mix of traditional rhythms, catchy melodies, and heartfelt storytelling. At its core lies Rumba—a genre with a fascinating journey. Originally rooted in traditional African musical styles, Rumba’s story began when enslaved Africans carried their music across the Atlantic. In the Americas, these rhythms blended with local sounds, giving birth to a new musical language. Over time, the music traveled back across the ocean, returning to Africa not as the same Rumba, but as a reimagined, enriched form that became a cornerstone of Congolese identity.
Today’s Congolese rumba reflects this incredible cycle of influences and exchanges. It’s a genre that harmoniously combines deep African roots with the flavors of its transatlantic journey, creating a sound that’s both timeless and typically local. This rich musical heritage paved the way for other genres such as soukous and ndombolo, and continues to inspire generations of artists across the Democratic Republic of Congo and beyond.
Congolese Rumba
Rumba has a long, fascinating history that reaches back to the Kingdom of Kongo. The rhythms and melodies traveled with enslaved Africans across the Atlantic, eventually influencing music in the Americas before returning home. In Congo, Rumba evolved into a style that not only entertained but also brought people together, influencing both daily life and celebrations. Today, Rumba remains a cornerstone of Congolese identity, inspiring countless other musical styles.
🔴 FLASH INFO
Nouvelle inscription sur la Liste du #PatrimoineImmatériel : la rumba congolaise.
Bravo à la #RépubliqueDémocratiqueDuCongo 🇨🇩 et au #Congo 🇨🇬 ! 👏
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— UNESCO en français (@UNESCO_fr) December 14, 2021
Soukous
Soukous is a genre that emerged from Congo and took Europe by storm in the 1980s. The name comes from the French word “secouer”, which means to shake, and reflects the energetic and danceable nature of the music. Soukous evolved from Congolese Rumba, with a major innovation being the ‘seben’, a dance section that became the highlight of the music. A pioneer of this transformation was Nico Kasanda, also known as Docteur Nico, whose smooth guitar style influenced many Congolese guitarists and was essential for the development of Soukous. The term ‘Soukous’ was popularized by a 1982 compilation by Island Records. The genre continued to evolve in the Paris music scene of the 1980s, mixing with elements of zouk and disco makossa, resulting in a hyperactive style known as Ndombolo.
Ndombolo
Ndombolo is a genre that emerged in the 90s, as a faster and more energetic version of Soukous. Ndombolo is known for its catchy beats and sensual dance moves, which involve shaking the hips and waist. Ndombolo has often been a subject of controversy, due to its perceived sexual nature and political messages. Some Ndombolo songs have been banned or censored by authorities in Congo and other African countries. However, Ndombolo remains very popular among the youth and the diaspora, who enjoy its lively and expressive style. Ndombolo has also influenced other genres, such as Afrobeat and Coupé-Décalé. Ndombolo is a genre that celebrates the Congolese culture and identity, and invites people to dance and have fun.
A Unique Tradition: Mabanga
Mabanga is a distinctive element of Congolese music, where artists weave the names of influential figures—such as politicians, wealthy patrons, or community leaders—into their lyrics. This practice isn’t merely about name-dropping; it’s a strategic nod to the network of patronage that supports the music scene. By acknowledging these key figures, musicians not only pay tribute to community pillars but also build connections that can lead to essential backing and opportunities.
This blend of art and social strategy enriches the music, making it a living reflection of contemporary Congolese life. Mabanga serves as a reminder that music in DR Congo is deeply intertwined with everyday power dynamics, where patronage plays a crucial role in nurturing talent and ensuring that creative voices continue to thrive.
Honoring the Pioneers
Before we shine the spotlight on the trailblazing women of Congolese music, it’s important to recognize the male pioneers who helped lay its foundation. Icons like Dr. Nico, Tabu Ley Rochereau, Grand Kalle, Pompon Kuleta, Wendo Kolosoy, Madilu System, and Papa Wemba weren’t just talented performers—they were innovators who defined and refined the distinct sounds of Congo, blending traditional rhythms with modern influences to create styles that continue to resonate today.
Their groundbreaking work not only set the stage for future generations but also established a rich cultural tapestry that modern Congolese artists draw upon. By celebrating their contributions, we honor a legacy of creativity, passion, and resilience—a reminder that every note and every rhythm carries the deep history from which today’s vibrant music scene has grown.
Our journey through the Congolese music landscape has only just begun. The stage is set, and the rhythm is pulsating – it’s time to meet the women who’ve dared to carve their names into this traditionally male-dominated field.
Spotlight on Female Artists
In our exploration of Congolese female musicians, we’ve chosen not to follow any particular order. Their stories are equally compelling, their music equally resonant, and their impact equally significant. Instead of imposing a sequence that might inadvertently prioritize some artists over others, we’ll introduce these trailblazers in a manner that celebrates their uniqueness. We invite you to journey with us, discovering each artist in turn, not by their timeline, but by the rhythm of their stories.
M’Pongo Love (1956-1990): The Voice of Urban Poetry
M’Pongo Love transformed Congolese music through her revolutionary approach to storytelling. Born Arlette Siari Tchato M’Bar, she brought urban poetry to Congolese Rumba, crafting lyrics that spoke directly to the experiences of working-class women. Her music wasn’t just entertainment – it was a mirror reflecting the daily struggles and triumphs of urban life in Congo.
Through songs like “Pas Possible Maty” (1983), she tackled complex social issues, particularly the challenges faced by women in marriage and society. Her distinctive vocal style, which seamlessly blended melodic Rumba with elements of spoken word, created a new language for social commentary in Congolese music.
The streets of Kinshasa heavily influenced M’Pongo’s artistic expression. She pioneered the integration of urban street language into traditional Rumba, creating a sound that resonated deeply with young, urban audiences. Her 1986 release “Ndako” addressed the housing crisis affecting many Congolese citizens, while “Partager” (1988) became an anthem of female solidarity. Though her life was tragically cut short at the age of 34, M’Pongo Love’s influence extends far beyond her years, inspiring a generation of socially conscious artists who followed in her footsteps.
M’bilia Bel (born 1959): The Queen of Rumba
Known affectionately as “La Clé de Sol” (The Treble Clef), M’bilia Bel revolutionized Congolese Rumba during the 1980s with a presence that commanded attention and a voice that demanded respect.
Her journey to stardom began with a groundbreaking collaboration with Tabu Ley Rochereau, but it was her own innovative spirit that truly set her apart. Bel developed what became known as the “double-voice” technique in Rumba, creating rich, layered vocal performances that gave her music unprecedented depth and complexity.
In 1984, Bel made history as the first female artist to sell out Kinshasa’s 20,000-seat stadium, a testament to her massive appeal and the changing attitudes toward female performers. Her hit song “Nakei Nairobi” captured the imagination of audiences across Africa, while “Boyaye” demonstrated her masterful ability to blend traditional instrumental arrangements with modern sensibilities. Through “Eswi Yo Wapi,” she showcased her gift for storytelling, weaving tales that resonated with listeners across cultural and linguistic boundaries. Winning the prestigious Prix de la Musique Africaine in both 1984 and 1985, Bel proved that female artists could not only participate in Congolese music but define its future.
Lucie Eyenga (1934-1987): The Pioneer
In the conservative landscape of 1950s Congo, Lucie Eyenga emerged as a revolutionary figure who would forever change the face of Congolese music.
Discovered in 1954, she shattered conventions by becoming one of Congo’s first female band members, opening doors that had long been closed to women in the industry. Her journey with Orchestre Bella Bella in the 1970s wasn’t just about making music – it was about proving that women belonged on stage as equals, not novelties.
Eyenga’s voice, described by contemporaries as gentle yet commanding, brought a new dimension to Congolese Rumba. Her innovative approach to vocal improvisation added layers of emotional depth to the genre, while her mastery of traditional Congolese vocal techniques helped bridge the gap between ancient musical traditions and modern arrangements. Through countless singles and performances, she demonstrated that femininity in music could be a source of strength rather than a limitation. Though she passed away in 1987, her influence continues to resonate through generations of female artists who followed the path she blazed.
Abeti Masikini (1954-1994): The International Ambassador
Known simply as Abeti, she emerged as a powerful force in African music during the 1970s and 1980s, breaking down international barriers and bringing Congolese music to global audiences.
Her journey to becoming one of Africa’s most prominent female singers was marked by bold artistic choices and an unwavering commitment to excellence. When she became the first Congolese female artist to perform at the prestigious Paris Olympia, she wasn’t just representing herself – she was opening the world’s eyes to the richness of Congolese musical talent.
Abeti’s artistry was characterized by remarkable versatility. Her three-octave vocal range allowed her to explore musical territories few had dared to venture into, while her innovative fusion of traditional Congolese rhythms with contemporary Western arrangements created a sound uniquely her own. Songs like “Je suis fachée” showcased not only her technical prowess but also her ability to convey deep emotion across cultural and linguistic boundaries. Through her performances in Lingala, French, and English, she built bridges between cultures and established herself as a true global ambassador of Congolese music.
Tshala Muana (1958-2022): The Queen of Mutuashi
Tshala Muana’s impact on Congolese music extends far beyond her powerful vocals. Rising to prominence in the 1980s, she earned the title “Queen of Mutuashi” through her masterful interpretation of this traditional Tshiluba dance style.
But Muana was more than just a performer – she was a cultural preservationist who brought regional traditions to the national stage, and a political activist who used her platform to advocate for social change.
Her signature song “Karibu Yangu” became an anthem that crossed borders, while her dynamic performances challenged societal norms about female expression in public spaces. Muana’s career spans decades of political and social transformation in Congo, and her music often served as a commentary on these changes. As both a singer and later a politician, she demonstrated how art could be a vehicle for social transformation, paving the way for future generations of female artists to engage with political and social issues through their music.
Faya Tess (born 1960): The Masterful Collaborator
Since the 1980s, Faya Tess has been a vital force in shaping the sound of modern Congolese music. Her collaborations with legends like Tabu Ley Rochereau, M’bilia Bel, and Lokua Kanza have produced some of the most memorable moments in Congolese musical history
Faya Tess has been in the music scene since the 1980s, working with some of the legends of African music, such as Tabu Ley Rochereau, M’bilia Bel, and Lokua Kanza. Faya Tess has a powerful and expressive voice that can move you to tears or make you dance with joy. She sings in Lingala, French, and English, and covers a range of topics, from love and social issues to spirituality and culture. Faya Tess is not only a singer, but also a songwriter and a composer, who has released several albums of her own original songs. She is also a passionate advocate for women’s rights and empowerment, and a role model for many young female artists. Faya Tess is a true gem of African music, and a living legend of rumba.
While the spotlight was shone on six phenomenal female voices, it’s important to acknowledge that this list is far from exhaustive. The Congolese music landscape is vast and rich, teeming with countless talented female artists waiting to be discovered. It’s also a reality that sourcing high-quality information and music videos on youtube can be challenging, but that doesn’t diminish the importance of their contributions. Now, let’s shift our focus to the present and future, exploring the current music scene in Congo and the upcoming talents setting their mark on it.
The New Generation: Voices of Contemporary Congo
As we move into the modern era of Congolese music, a new generation of artists emerges, carrying forward the legacy of their predecessors while forging their own unique paths. These contemporary voices aren’t just preserving tradition – they’re reimagining it for a global digital age, proving that the spirit of innovation that characterized their forebears remains alive and vibrant in today’s Congo.
Celine Banza
Celine Banza embodies this spirit of evolution in Congolese music.
Her victory at Radio France Internationale’s 2019 “Discoveries” award marked a significant moment for Congo’s music scene, signaling the emergence of a new artistic vision. Armed with her guitar and a voice that carries echoes of both traditional Congolese melodies and contemporary global influences, Banza creates music that speaks to both local and international audiences. While her style might draw comparisons to international artists like Tracy Chapman, her work remains deeply rooted in Congolese musical traditions, creating a bridge between past and present.
Maud Elka
Maud Elka represents another fascinating direction in contemporary Congolese music
As a French singer of Congolese origin, she embodies the cultural fusion that characterizes much of modern African music. Since her 2013 collaboration with rapper Dinos on “Buzz,” Elka has been crafting a sound that seamlessly blends Congolese musical heritage with urban pop and Afro-American influences. Her releases, from her self-titled EP in 2018 to “Seven” in 2020, showcase how Congolese music continues to evolve in the diaspora. Her work with artists like Alikiba on “Songi Songi” demonstrates how contemporary artists can honor their roots while pushing musical boundaries.
Sista Becky
Perhaps no one better represents the bold new direction of Congolese music than Sista Becky, known to many as La Princesse Bantou
Since 2016, she has been redefining what it means to be a female artist in Congo’s music industry. As a rapper, songwriter, and head of her own music label, SB Entertainment DRC, Becky exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit of modern African musicians. Her witty lyrics and empowering messages continue the tradition of social commentary in Congolese music, while her success as a brand ambassador and social media influencer shows how today’s artists are building careers that extend beyond traditional musical roles.
Conclusion
As our journey through Congo’s musical landscape comes to an end, its heartbeat remains undeniable: from the mesmerizing rhythms of Rumba to the raw energy of Soukous, from the electric pulse of Ndombolo to the soul-stirring sounds of today, this music transcends borders and speaks to hearts worldwide.
From Lucie Eyenga’s pioneering spirit to Celine Banza’s contemporary innovations, the story of women in Congolese music is one of continuous evolution and resilience. Each generation has faced unique challenges and created new opportunities, building upon a rich musical heritage. The voices we’ve explored – from M’Pongo Love’s urban poetry to M’bilia Bel’s majestic Rumba – represent more than just musical talent. They embody the strength and creativity that have shaped Congolese culture.
Today’s artists carry this legacy forward through digital platforms and international collaborations, ensuring that female voices in Congolese music remain strong and continue to evolve. As we celebrate these artists, we become part of their ongoing narrative, supporting a future where all voices can be heard and celebrated.
For those inspired to discover more, we’ve curated a special Spotify playlist featuring classic Congolese Rumba hits. This collection showcases the incredible talent and diversity of Congolese music through the years. Click here [Spotify Playlist Link] to start your musical journey through the heart of Congo.