Go Back
Syran Mbenza
First Name: 
Last Name: 
Stage Name: 
Country: 
Born: 
Primary Language: 

Participations

1
Lead Guitarist
Bio
Syran Mbenza, professionally known as M'Benza, is a celebrated Congolese guitarist renowned for his contributions to Soukous and Rumba music. Inspired by Franco Luambo, he self-taught himself guitar at age 11 and played in various local bands. Moving to Paris in 1981, he left an indelible mark on the industry. With a career spanning five decades, Mbenza has excelled as a solo artist, a vital member of Les Quatre Étoiles soukous group, and the founder of Kékélé, a Congolese rumba revival band. Mbenza's talent led to collaborations with notable artists, and he recorded multiple albums, including the critically acclaimed "Immortal Franco." A truly legendary guitarist in Africa.
Discography
Albums6
Africa The Golden Years
Africa The Golden Years1998 • AlbumTracks: 8
Elisa Dangwa
Elisa Dangwa1984 • AlbumTracks: 5
Syran
Syran1983 • AlbumTracks: 4
Kouamé
Kouamé1980 • AlbumTracks: 6
Symbiose (The best of Paris)
Symbiose (The best of Paris)1920 • albumTracks: 6
Sisika
Sisika1920 • albumTracks: 5
Label
Record Label associated with Syran Mbenza - past and current.
    Similar Artists
    JB Mpiana
    JB MpianaCongo, The Democratic Republic of the |1967| French
    JB Mpiana, born Jean-Bedel Mpiana wa Tshituka, is a Congolese singer-songwriter, dancer-choreographer, and musician renowned for his contributions to rumba, ndombolo, and soukous genres. At age ten, he discovered his passion for singing, eventually performing in church and school groups alongside friends Blaise Bula and Titina Mbwinga Kamboleta. Mpiana's life took a turn when he joined the music group Wenge Musica, featuring talented artists like Werrason and Didier Masela. After the group disbanded, Mpiana launched a successful solo career with his debut album, "Feux de l'amour," achieving gold status. His second solo album, "TH: Toujours Humble," further solidified his global recognition. Mpiana's talent and versatility have made him one of Congo's most influential and celebrated artists.
    Bailly Spinto
    Bailly SpintoIvory Coast |1951| French
    Bailly Spinto, born Bailly Sylvestre Gallet, is an Ivorian music legend known for his smooth vocals, infectious stage presence, and decades of Afrobeat influence. Spinto, known as "l'Homme à la voix d'or" ("the man with the golden voice"), has influenced Ivorian and African music with his soulful baritone for over 50 years. His career took off after he won his first singing competition at 11, joining several groups and becoming the lead vocalist of 'New System Pop.' Spinto released his first solo album, "Gnian Gnian," in 1980, launching a career with 18 albums and many hits. His hits "Anou Me," "Bli Na Lo," and "Gnian Maman" propelled him to stardom and a spot at Paris's Olympia theatre.
    Koffi Olomide
    Koffi OlomideCongo, The Democratic Republic of the |1956| Other
    Koffi Olomide is a Congolese artist whose music flows like the mighty Congo river. Born in Kinshasa in 1956, Koffi started his career as a backup singer for Papa Wemba's band, Viva la Musica. Koffi's music is a fusion of Congolese rumba, soukous, and other African and Western music genres. His lyrics are a blend of social commentary, love, and humor, delivered in his signature high-pitched voice. Koffi's music has a unique ability to move people's feet and stir their souls. Over the years, Koffi has released several albums and collaborated with other African music legends such as Youssou N'Dour and Papa Wemba. He won the Kora Award for Best African Artist in 1998 and 1999.
    Mighty Popo
    Mighty PopoRWANDA |1966| French
    Jaques Murigande, renowned as Mighty Popo, is a prominent Rwandan musician and educator. His journey began at the tender age of 8, when he first picked up the guitar, setting the stage for a remarkable career. In the early 1990s, he embarked on his professional musical odyssey, ultimately catapulting to fame with his 1997 single, "Agasaza," which enjoyed widespread AirPlay. In 2000, "Dunia Yote," his album, soared to chart-topping heights and reached the 18th spot in Germany. With a repertoire of over 100 compositions, Mighty Popo's impact extends beyond music. He founded the Rwandan School of Creative Arts and Music and the Kigali Music Festival, earning numerous accolades for his music industry contributions. Today, he continues to leave his mark both locally and globally.
    Mayaula Mayoni
    Mayaula MayoniCongo |1946| Lingala
    Mayaula Mayoni, also known as Freddy Mayaula Mayoni, was a versatile Congolese soukous artist, songwriter, and guitarist. Before embarking on his music career, he showcased his talents as a talented footballer. His musical journey began with the Congolese student orchestra, 'Africana,' where he played the rhythm guitar, demonstrating his musical prowess. Mayoni was also a notable member of the renowned soukous ensemble TPOK Jazz. Among his impressive contributions to the genre, the track "Cherie Bondowe" stands out. Throughout his illustrious career, Mayaula Mayoni earned multiple accolades, frequently being voted 'composer of the year' in Zaire, a testament to his immense talent and influence in the world of soukous music.
    Johnny Bokelo
    Johnny BokeloCongo |1939| French
    Jean 'Johnny' Bokelo Isenge was a gifted Congolese musician and the younger brother of Paul 'Dewayon' Isengo. He joined his brother's band, Watam, at age twelve, learning guitar alongside a young Franco in 1950. Bokelo later formed his own group, Orchestre Conga Succès, in 1958, known for its edgier sound. Despite parting ways with his brother in 1962, Bokelo continued to lead Conga Succès, refining their sound and addressing societal concerns through his 'Mwambe' recordings. He faced challenges with his label and pressed records in Kenya due to issues with the Belgian company Fonior. Bokelo's lasting impact on Congolese music and his dedication to his craft make him an enduring inspiration.