M'Bilia BelCongo, The Democratic Republic of the |1959| FrenchMbila Bel, aka “Queen of Congolese and African Rumba,” was born Marie Moseka in the Belgian Congo (now DR Congo). She began her music career as a backup singer for well-known Congolese artists as a teenager, inspired by her guitarist father. Her unique style of music made her stand out, and she received recognition from Congolese legend Tabu Ley, who mentored and absorbed her into his music group. In the mid-1980s, she embarked on a successful solo career, releasing acclaimed songs like "Lisanga ya Bambanda," "Where Did It Hurt You?" and "Mobali na ngai wana," amongst several others. Her music conveys messages of love, empowerment, and social consciousness while uniting audiences worldwide.