MeiwayIvory Coast |1962| FrenchFrédéric Ehui, professionally known as Meiway, is a renowned Ivorian singer, songwriter, and composer. He is credited with inventing a unique musical style called Zoblazo. Inspired by the folk rhythms of the Akan, Zoblazo incorporates traditional percussion and modern orchestration into his music. Meiway's second album, 200% Zoblazo, brought him fame in 1991, and he went on to win the title of best singer in Ivory Coast. Meiway's music is danced with a white handkerchief, a symbol of joy, purity, and peace.
Rigo StarCongo |1955| FrenchRigobert Bamundele, better known as Rigo Star, was an acclaimed Congolese guitarist and arranger. Born in Kinshasa, he began his musical journey by joining Papa Wemba's "Viva la Musica," where he gained recognition as a lead guitarist. He later moved to Paris, becoming a sought-after session musician and working on various albums. Rigo's versatile musical contributions extended to various albums and collaborations, including his critically acclaimed collaboration "Phénomène" with Mbilia Bel. Rigo's innovative approach to music earned him some criticism for his experimental style, but he has remained esteemed for his exceptional guitar skills.
Lapiro De MbangaCameroon |1957| FrenchLapiro De Mbanga was a renowned Cameroonian musician, born as Lambo Pierre Roger. He started his music career in the 1980s, and his unique style of music blended traditional Cameroonian rhythms with reggae, makossa, and other genres. Lapiro was an outspoken political activist who used his music to address social issues such as corruption, poverty, and inequality in Cameroon. Some of his notable songs include "No Make Erreur," "Na Wou Go Pay," and "Constitution Constipée." However, in 2008, he was arrested and sentenced to three years in prison for his involvement in protests against President Paul Biya's government. He was released in 2011 and continued to create music until his death in March 2014 after a music career spanning over three decades.
Petit MakamboCongo |1949| FrenchIlombo Ifete, better known as Petit Makambo, aka King of Soukous, is a Congolese singer, songwriter, guitarist, and composer. He is often regarded as one of the foremost pioneers of Modern Soukous music in Africa. Throughout his illustrious career, Petit Makambo has not only crafted his distinctive soukous sound but has also played a pivotal role in catapulting different soukous artists into the limelight. Some of his notable releases include "Le Raid" (1995), "Impact" (1998), "Le Scorpion" (2000), and "Soubol Okoyoka Eloko" (2020).
Ma-WilliesSouth Africa |1969| ZuluWilliam Bongani Makhubela, better known by his stage name Ma-Willies, was a South African musician who has made a significant contribution to the Kwaito genre. Mawillies' music career began in the late 1990s. He gained recognition for his distinctive voice and unique dance moves, which he showcased in his energetic performances. Mawillies' music often addresses social issues and promotes cultural pride. His debut album, "Intwenjani", was released in 1997 and was a commercial success. He released eight albums: Intwenjan, Liya Khuzikhehla, Hoezet, Ke Tswere Lotto and Kwaito Graduation in total before his demise in 2008. Mawillies is regarded as one of the pioneers of Kwaito music and was recognized his contributions to the kwaito genre.
Prince Kudakwashe MusarurwaZimbabwe |1988| ShonaPrince Kudakwashe Musarurwa was a highly talented Zimbabwean Afro-Jazz artist known for his skills as a singer, songwriter, producer, and musician. He grew up in a family with a musical background, and his passion for music developed early, leading him to participate in his school choir. After completing high school, he pursued his musical interests by attending the Zimbabwe College of Music. In 2011, he achieved a significant milestone by recording his debut album, "Kurarama," which marked the beginning of his musical journey. Prince Kudakwashe Musarurwa went on to create more albums, some of which gained international recognition. Tragically, he passed away in 2020 at age 31, leaving behind a legacy of musical excellence.
AwiloCongo, The Democratic Republic of the |1962| FrenchAwilo Longomba is a popular Congolese musician. His father was a lead singer and founder of Tout Puissant OK Jazz, and Awilo grew up around music. He started drumming for groups in Kinshasa, joined Viva La Musica, and moved to France to pursue his career. Awilo is popular in Africa and internationally, with hit songs like "Coupe Bibamba" and "Karolina." He has collaborated with various African artists, won the Best Soukous Entertainer Award, and worked with modern-day musicians like P-Square and Yemi Alade.
