×

Congolese Music Star, Papa Wemba, Dies On Stage

Congolese music star Papa Wemba has died after collapsing on stage in Abidjan in Ivory Coast. French broadcaster, France 24, confirmed the death, quoting his … Continue reading Congolese Music Star, Papa Wemba, Dies On Stage


Papa_WembaCongolese music star Papa Wemba has died after collapsing on stage in Abidjan in Ivory Coast.

French broadcaster, France 24, confirmed the death, quoting his manager.

Reports say video from the concert shows the artist, who was 66, slumped on the floor as dancers continue to perform, unaware of what is happening.

The Congolese band leader, whose real name was Jules Shungu Webadio, also inspired a cult movement known as the Sapeurs whose members, young men, spend huge amounts of money on designer clothes.

Wemba’s made his style of music, Soukous, also known as rumba rock, to become a popular sound across Africa.

Together with his bands Zaiko Langa Langa, Isifi and Viva La Musica, he racked up hit after hit including L’Esclave and Le Voyageur.