1940s – 1980sPeak: 1960s
Congolese Rumba
About Congolese Rumba
Born in the 1940s when Congolese musicians reinterpreted Cuban son and rumba through African rhythms and electric guitars. It became the dominant popular music of Central Africa and the foundation for soukous.
Key Artists
Dr Nico
1950s, 1960s, 1970s
Franco Luambo
1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s
Gaz Mawete
2010s, 2020s
Grand Kallé
1950s, 1960s, 1970s
M'Pongo Love
1970s, 1980s
Sam Mangwana
1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s
Tabu Ley Rochereau
1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s
Tshala Muana
1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s
Zaiko Langa Langa
1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s