Koffi Olomide
Koffi Olomide is a famous Congolese musician who has been active in the music industry since the 1970s. He is known for his distinctive style of soukous, a genre of dance music that originated in the Congo and spread across Africa and beyond. He is also the founder and leader of the Quartier Latin International orchestra, which has produced many successful artists such as Fally Ipupa and Ferré Gola.
Koffi Olomide was born on 13 July 1956 in Kisangani, DRC, as Antoine Christophe Agbepa Mumba. His mother named him Koffi because he was born on Friday. He grew up in a middle-class family, without any musical background. He learned to play the guitar from a neighbor and started to sing popular songs with his own lyrics and rhythms. He was a bright student who earned a scholarship to study in Bordeaux, France, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in business economics. He also holds a master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Paris.
Koffi Olomide returned to the Congo in the 1970s and joined the band Viva la Musica, led by his mentor Papa Wemba. He started as a composer and songwriter, and later became a lead vocalist. He gained popularity with his songs that blended traditional Congolese rumba with modern influences such as funk, disco and rap. In 1986, he formed his own band, Quartier Latin International, which became one of the most influential groups in African music. He also launched his solo career and released several albums that achieved gold status.
Koffi Olomide is known for his charismatic stage presence and his elaborate dance moves. He has created several dance styles, such as tcha-tcho, ndombolo and kisanola. He has performed in many countries around the world and has collaborated with other artists such as Youssou N’Dour, Papa Wemba, Mory Kanté and Manu Dibango. He has won many awards and honors, such as four Kora Awards, two MTV Africa Music Awards, two African Music Awards and the National Order of Ikhamanga from the South African Government.
Koffi Olomide is also a controversial figure who has faced several allegations of violence, abuse and rape. He has been accused of assaulting his dancers, journalists and fans on several occasions. He has also been convicted of statutory rape of one of his former dancers when she was 15 years old by a court in France in absentia. He has denied all the charges and has appealed against the verdict.
Koffi Olomide is a legend of African music who has influenced many generations of musicians and fans. He is a versatile artist who has experimented with different genres and styles of music. He is a cultural icon who has contributed to the promotion of Congolese culture and identity. He is also a controversial figure who has faced criticism and legal troubles for his actions and behavior.