A lot can be said about Soukous music, its origin, its major figures and its influence in the world music.  Simply stated, Soukous music originated from both of the Congolese countries i.e. Congo Brazzaville and Congo Kinshasa in the 1940’s, 1950’s and the 60’s. It is the music which has had most influence in most sub Saharan countries in terms of radio listenership and overall music artistry in the media.

Soukous music is referred to in different names in different parts of Africa and the world. It is referred to as Lingala music since Lingala or Kilingala is the language of the music. Others refer to it as Congo Music or Rhumba. Whatever its name is, Soukous music culture has remained strong and continues to gain influence beyond Africa.

Being an eclectic mishmash of Cuban music, Rock sounds and off course African rhythms, blended with great Congolese vocal musicians’ talents, Soukous songs make great selections to listen to. Some of the fastest and most talented guitarists have come to the limelight as a result of Soukous. From the like of Diblo Dibala, Lokassa ya Mbongo and off course the latest sensational Wenge Musica Solo Guitarist Flamme Kapaya just to name a few.

Soukous or Lingala music has influenced and helped growth of other types of music especially in eastern Africa and mostly in Kenya and Tanzania. Swahili rumba which is more of Eastern Africa was largely influenced by Soukous music than anything else. Western African musicology and dance especially in French speaking nations such as Ivory Coast and Benin have had their fair share of Soukous influence.

The question is how come Soukous music continues to have such great effect on the African Music scene and beyond Africa? The answer can only be attributed to the talent and product generated thereof and to an old African saying; that which is good markets itself.

The Top Three Most Popular Soukous Musicians or Group of all time:

As a big fan and customer of Soukous music, I could probably say that I know one or two things about who I think has done well in the past and in the present day in Soukous music realm. Without a doubt the late Franco Luambo Luanzo Makiadi’s songs are still playing on the internet across the world in homes as well as bars and restaurants. In my opinion Franco is without a doubt in the same league with Johnny Cash or Ray Charles. He was and still is the grand master.  He wins my vote as the best of best out of all the Soukous music old timers.

My second ranking of one of the best Soukous masters would go be no other than the group Zaiko Langa Langa group. Undoubtedly, Zaiko has continuously churned out great talents. These talents read like who is who of Lingala musical culture. Names like Papa Wemba, Nyoka Longo Mzula and or course the entire Wenge Musica entourage including the likes of Werrason and JB Mpiana just to name a few. My second vote would go jointly to this group just based on how it has exemplified nothing but talent over the last 3 decades.

My number three ranking of the best Soukous musician of all time would go to none other than Koffi Olomide. Also known by a plethora of other names (mopao, mokonzi, papa fololo) Koffi has proved all the critics wrong by just offering what the crowd needs from time to time.

African Soukous continues to grow strong and pervade through radio, television and other media. It seems that sooner than later that Soukous will become quite a phenomenon. I am looking forward to that.

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