1970s – 2020sPeak: 1980s
Soukous
About Soukous
A high-energy evolution of Congolese rumba featuring fast-paced guitar work and dance rhythms. Soukous spread across Africa and to Europe in the 1980s, becoming one of the continent's most popular dance genres.
Key Artists
Awilo Longomba
1990s, 2000s, 2010s
Fally Ipupa
2000s, 2010s, 2020s
Kanda Bongo Man
1980s, 1990s, 2000s
Koffi Olomidé
1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s
M'bilia Bel
1980s, 1990s, 2000s
Papa Wemba
1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s
Pépé Kallé
1970s, 1980s, 1990s
Tabu Ley Rochereau
1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s
Zaiko Langa Langa
1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s