BLAISE LABAMBA

Congolese rumba and soukous are dished up generously when Blaise La Bamba takes to the stage. Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (then called Zaïre) to a pianist father and chorister mother, growing up in a world of burgeoning African music, Blaise Bamba Muana Manzo was introduced to the piano, guitar and percussions. In 1990, he set up his first group in his neighbourhood, Tout-Chic-Gombé. Between 1993 and 1995, Blaise studied music at the Institut National des Arts in Kinshasa and then joined the group of a leading Congolese star of that era, General Defao and his Big Stars. That was the start of a series of international tours. Blaise played with the big names of African music and travelled across the continent. In 1999, he settled in Montreal and took his place in Canada accompanying various groups on stage. After notching up hundred of concerts, Blaise La Bamba set off on a solo career. He affirmed his tastes and desires, blending Congolese rumba and soukous in a show of talent and flamboyant energy. Taking the cue from his live album Personnalité, be sure not to miss this master of Congolese dance, with Kinshasa-style artistry!