Kabumbayi Joh, a Congolese singer, songwriter, arranger, producer & multi-instrumentalist, is inspired by jazz and soukous music. His musical journey began at age eight in his church choir, but it was winning a music competition in elementary school that inspired him to pursue a professional career. His interest in music deepened after being inspired by a local musician who taught him guitar basics during his daily water-fetching errands. Kabumbayi Joh released his debut album Nos Âmes in 2010, which opened doors to numerous events and festivals. At these performances he appeared alongside renowned African artists such as Akon, Lokua Kanza, Ismael Lô, Zahara, Oliver Mtukudzi and Oumou Sangare. Kabumbayi Joh has since released the albums Le Monde (2020) and Sous le Soleil (2022).
Featured Songs:
The song "Mboka Na Ngai" (My Country) expresses a deep love and pride for Congo. Singling in Lingala, Kabumbayi Joh praises its beauty and abundant resources mentioning natural wonders such as the Virunga National Park, Nyiragongo volcano, and Lake Kivu. The Café Africa song also touches on themes of unity and prosperity, suggesting that by joining hands, Congolese people can achieve wealth and happiness.
On the Global Dinner Party track, “Njarabi,” Kabumbayi Joh sings from the point of a view of a woman pleading with her husband named Njarabi not to leave her. In Lingala and French, he sings, “Remember all the good times we had together / And since you’ve been far from me I cry everyday / Please come back / Let’s fix our problems together and forgive each other.”
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