congo in kenya

This page is devoted to expatriate Congolese bands working in East Africa in the 70s and 80s. My aim here is to plot a family tree, adding
band names, including names of band members, dates, and recordings of these bands. The information on this page is copyright, but may
be reprinted with proper acknowledgment (see bottom of page for Creative Commons Licensing Agreement). Major contributions have
been made by Peter Toll, Douglas Paterson, Tim Clifford, Zim Bida, Flemming Harrev, Alan Wheeler, Paul Johnston, Siama Matuzungidi,
and others listed below.


BABA GASTON

BABA GASTON

Baba Gaston was born on July 5, 1936 at Likasi, near Lubumbashi in Shaba Province, Eastern DR Congo. He changed his name to Ilunga Chenji Kamanda wa Kamanda Gaston Omer after Mobutu decreed that Zaire nationals replace their Christian names with African ones.

He picked up his early musical training from a Greek pianist, Leonides Rapitis, and had a hit with "Barua kwa Mpenzi Gaston" while he was still in school. When he was 20 he formed the Baba National Orchestre, which he took on an extended tour through Zambia, Zimbabwe and several European countries before becoming one of the first Congolese musicians to settle in East Africa in the early 70s.

Evani Kabila Kabanze, who was later to star with Les Mangelepa, sang with Orchestra Baba Nationale in Lubumbashi. The band used to travel to Kinshasa to record. According to Kabanze, sometime in 1971, because of the poor roads in the Congo, they took the Kisangani route through Kilemi which lies on the Congolese border with Tanzania. But, instead of proceeding to Kinshasa, they decided to enter East Africa, having heard of the region's superb studios.

The band settled in Dar-es-Salaam for four years. They found it cheaper there and built a strong fan base. For recording they would cross the border and travel to Nairobi. But, four years later, in 1975, Baba Gaston decided to move the band to Nairobi when they realised they had an even bigger following there.

Congolese musicians have been making waves in Kenya since the late 1950s. It was the Congolese OS Africa Band that opened Nairobi's famous Starlight Club back in 1964. But it wasn't until the mid-1970s, after the passing of the American soul craze, that music from Zaire began to dominate the city nightclubs. As a composer and band leader, Baba Gaston was prominent in the music scene in Kenya for three decades, and is considered one of the godfathers of Kenyan pop.

He sang mostly in Swahili. His tunes were hugely popular and remain evergreen. "Kakolele Viva Christmas" (lead vocals by Kasongo Wakanema who later joined Super Mazembe) earned him a golden award, selling over 60,000 for Polygram. Other memorable hits were "Ilunga Ilunga," "Kai Kai," and "Mayasa." He rarely dabbled in politics, but a praise song for Mobutu in 1983 earned him a gold disc from the president.

Baba Gaston once proudly claimed he had played with more than 700 musicians and that his band was a virtual training school. There was another side to the statistic, however, as Hanz Kinzl, manager of Phonogram, the second biggest label in Kenya, has said, "Baba is an extraordinary person. He has this fatherly image on him, and I think it's quite genuine. In Africa you're wealthy if you have a big stomach. If you can show that you're a big man then you are also regarded as a rich man and an important personality. Which means that he takes the majority of whatever income his music provides him with, to the dissatisfaction of the band members. Consequently there is hardly any band in Nairobi and Kenya which has broken up as often as Baba's".

Mounting dissatisfaction for two years came to a head in July 1976 when several members including Bwami Walumona, Kasongo Wakanema, Evani Kabila Kabanze (vocalist/composer), Kalenga Nzaazi Vivi (vocalist/composer), Lutulu Kaniki Macky, and Twikale wa Twikale split from Baba Nationale to form Orchestra Les Mangelepa. Other splits led breakaway members to Bwambe Bwambe, Pepelepe, and Viva Makale.

Names that rose to prominence with Baba Gaston include Starzo ya Esta (the force behind Festival du Zaire), BadiBanga wa Tshilumba Kaikai (vocalist/composer, later with Les Mangelepa), Mukala Kayinda Coco, Jimmy Kanyinda, Aloni Vangu, Mukala wa Mulumba Bebe, Zainabu, Pepe Mato, Yassa Bijouley (now in Mombasa, Kenya), Lisasi Ebale Mozindo, Zengele Saida, William Tambwe Lokassa, Kasongo Fundi, Kazadi Mbiya Saleh wa Bambu, Medico Bwala, Lukangika Maindusa Moustang, Lumwamga Mayombo Ambassedeur, Mukala wa Mulumba, and Tshimanga Zadios.

A female vocalist who sang with Gaston was Nana Akumu wa Kudu. She is also remembered for her singing with Pepelepe in Nairobi before joining Franco and OK Jazz in the hit song "Mamou." She still performs in Brussels, backed by her husband Djo Mali and ex-Les Noirs guitarist Dieudos.

Other alumni, who have now died, include John Ngereza (who later led Les Wanyika until his death in February 2000), Shoushou (Tchou Tchou), Lutulu Kaniki Macky (a vocalist/composer), Bosho Kayembe Nyonga (who led Festival Libaku in Nairobi before his death), Tabu Nkotela Kiombwe (who died in Mombasa, Kenya, while in police custody on a theft charge).

Baba Gaston died on March 25, 1997, while living across the border in Tanzania, where he had moved since his retirement from the music scene in 1989. He is buried at the Lang'ata cemetery in Nairobi. A prolific musician and apparently also a prolific father.

collated by Paul Johnston from:
Peter Ingolo
Odindo Ayieko
Muttu Mondiya Mama: Music and Musicians in Eastern and Central Africa
Graeme Ewens: Africa O-Ye!, Da Capo, 1991
Douglas Paterson, "Kenya: The life and times of Kenyan pop" in The Rough Guide to World Music Vol 1 (Africa, Europe and the Middle East) by Simon Broughton, Mark Ellingham, Richard Trillo (Editors), London, Rough Guides, 1999

Disclaimer: I claim no credit for any of this writing. It is a collation from the sources mentioned above. If material from other sources has crept in it is unintentional. Please let me know so that I can give credit where it is due. (PMJ/20 Nov 2006). Edited by Peter Toll, 22 March 07.

BOMA LIWANZA

Peter Toll reports:

Jim Monimambo must have come to Kenya in the mid 1970s [note: See his info in the liner notes to Special Liwanza below]. He might have arrived there in 1975 with Kalombo Mwanza's Orch. Basanga, a band that also included Tabu Batchalinge Ogolla and Loboko Pasi who joined Orch. Boma Liwanza soon after getting to Nairobi. Apparently Orch. Basanga fell apart upon arrival because this is what Loboko Pasi said in an article in The Nation (June 17, 2006):

"I had heard about Franco's tours to Kenya and how he would attract crowds in Nairobi and Kisumu. I was very excited about the tour. I had also heard that Nairobi was the London of East Africa, the land of milk and honey. If I couldn't get to London, I told myself, Nairobi would do," adds Pasi.
The tour was to take Orchestra Basanga through Uganda and Tanzania followed by a grand performance in Nairobi before returning home. So after a rather lukewarm reception in Uganda and a low-key performance in Tanzania, the band, led by Kalombo Mwanza, set out for Nairobi. However, somewhere along the way, internal rifts developed over money after the tour's sponsor took off with the little cash that had been realised.
"That was a trying time for me. I was among the band's youngest members, it was my first foreign tour and there we were, splitting. I wondered how I would find my way back home with no money," recalls Pasi.
When they got to Nairobi, the band split up and it was every man for himself. With no tools of trade, no person to turn to, Pasi wandered in the streets of Nairobi, hoping to meet a Congolese who he would share his problems with.
"I did not even have a guitar to perform on the streets to raise money for food".
For almost a month, Pasi had to beg to survive. The paradise in Nairobi was elusive.
"It was not London to me any more. There was no milk, no honey, not even bread crumbs. I was starving, I needed something to do to get food," recalls Pasi.
After knowing his way around town, Pasi joined a Congolese band by the name Boma Liwanza.
"I just introduced myself and they allowed me to perform with them although they doubted my abilities. I proved myself and they accepted me officially," he says.

In the mid 1970s Monimambo became a singer with Boma Liwanza and a popular one. In 1976 he even started to record with his own band Special Liwanza - which was probably just a studio band made up of members of Boma Liwanza. It seems Jim was still with Boma Liwanza in 1979 when he wrote one of their big hits, "Milimani".

However, around the same time he also started performing with George Kalombo Mwanza's new band Viva Makale and that's where he sang with a Zairean artist who had just returned from Tanzania, Moreno Batambo. Soon after, the two started a new band, Shika Shika, but unfortunately, Moreno wanted to be his own boss, so he moved within a year to form Moja One. I believe Orch. Shika Shika was formed in 1980, the year Moreno's "Maisha Ya Mjini" was recorded.



MONIMAMBO

MONIMAMBO, LOVY & MORENO:
ORCHESTRA SHIKA SHIKA

Shika Shika released an album on the Hit Parade label in 1982 and two more in 1983, and produced a slew of singles on different labels. "Tika na lela (Leave & weep)" by Lovy is one of their greatest songs: it became their catch-phrase. They quote the lyrics often, and reprise it musically in both "Massa" and "Ma-Sofia." Among those who leave and weep in this latter version are Samba Mapangala. Their other hits included "Sisili," "Amba," & "Inyo" (according to Phil Bunce in Issue 3 of SONGA! magazine which included a cassette of "Amba").

Among the singers of Shika Shika were Monimambo Jim (born 15 Nov 1949; died circa 2002 in Dar-es-Salaam), Vicky "Lovy" Longomba (1957-96) and Moreno Batamba (1955-October 1994).

Monimambo was also known as Jimmy Monimambo Mfumu Ntoto, the honorific means "King of the Earth" in the Ki-Kongo language (Maquis du Zaire did a song called "Mtukwao" with the lyric "Monimambo ooooh!"). He has most songwriting credits. Monimambo is a surname in Angola; it is also the name of a pan-Kongo trickster spirit! Jimmy was born in Barumbu, Kinshasa of Angolan parents. Many Angolans migrated to the Congo basin in search of work. Sam Mangwana also had Angolan roots. In addition to Shika Shika, Monimambo (who started out with orchestras Los Angel and Cercul Jazz, among others) wrote and performed with Special Liwanza, Boma Liwanza, and Viva Makale of Kalombo Mwanza George. Other bandmates in Shika Shika included Bwami Walumona & Kasongo Kanema formerly of Baba Nationale, and later of Les Mangelepa, Lawi Somona, plus Sammy Mansita, guitarist Mwalimu Siama Matuzungidi, and drummer Lava Machine, who were together in Virunga. Monimambo and Longomba also recorded with studio bands Orchestra Mos Mos and Orchestra Pole Pole. Guitarist Chery Matumona left in 1981 to go to Uganda & Zambia; he now lives in Canada.

Siama Matuzungidi was guitarist with the Cavacha band in Kinshasa in the 70's (The Cavacha was a dance later popularized by Zaiko Langa Langa). Cavacha was formed by Dona Mobeti (tenor voice) and Mopero (baritone). It also featured Mambo Ley and Nanga Nella. Their 1976 hit "Luciana" can be found on the Ngoyarto CD Les plus grands succès de l'orchestre Shama Shama de Mopero. Siama's first composition for them was called "Bomoto mabasi." As Siama says, "Mopero split and formed Orchestre Cavacha de Mopero which led to a conflict. Finally Franco intervened and told Mopero to get a new name. Vicky Shama Shama was Mopero's girlfriend so he chose that as the name of the band (and it's also a song title by Cavacha de Mopero). Shama Shama was formed from Cavacha members as Mopero Wa Maloba was the Cavacha singer." Siama recalls: "Now I can see all the sin we lived with at that time, it was fun! Mopero died in west Africa in 2008, very sad. Shama Shama band got divided just before the Uganda trip; Mopero got new musicians and went to Uganda and then the band broke up again -- that's why KoKo Zigo convinced me to fly to Uganda and form Kombe Kombe in 1978 with Koko Zigo as the singer. We moved to Kenya as Kombe Kombe and we were given a contract at Garden Square in Nairobi to form a new band by the name Viva Makale, but Koko Zigo kept the name Kombe Kombe for our private recordings."
Siama recalls: "At the beginning of Viva Makale the band was:

George Kalombo Mwanza/saxophone and vocal
Buami Walumona/lead guitar
Chery Matumona/lead guitar
Siama Matuzungidi/rhythm guitar
Tabu Frantal/guitar
Thomy Kabea Lomboto/bass guitar
Coco Zigo/vocal
Moreno Batamba/vocal
Jimmy Monimambo/vocal
Tambwe Mandola/vocal
Tshamusoke/trumpet
Lava Machine/drums


SIAMA
Then the line-up of Shika Shika was:

Jimmy Monimambo/vocal
Siama Matuzungidi/guitar
Chery Matumona/lead guitar
Tabu Frantal/lead guitar
Lovy Longomba/vocal
Dago Mayombe/vocal
Wabansilu Manycho/bass
Lava Machine/drums

Almost the same musicians used to record in Moja One of Moreno Batamba: it depended who Moreno wanted to use because in the old days Moja One and Shika Shika were not performing just studio recording."


MORENO
Moreno (Batamba Wenda Morris), of the deep bass voice, was born in Kisangani, Haut-Zaire province, Congo, in 1955. He quit school in 1971 to join Orchestre Maquis Sasa Bata. He moved to Uganda & in 1974 joined Orchestra Bana Ngenge of singer Jojo Ikomo. Ethan Bloomberg writes: "During a discussion of Orchestre Veve with Samba Mapangala, Bana Ngenge came up. He told me a story of Veve in Uganda (they were wildly popular), and a club owner who later went to Kinshasa and poached some Veve musicians, to perform in Kampala. Bana Ngenge was the group that emerged from this undertaking." Bana Moja or Bana Ngenge (the name depended on who was in charge) moved to Nairobi in the mid-70s and featured, in addition to Jojo Ikomo, Fataki Lokassa, Nsilu Wabansilu Manitcho (ex-Veve bass-player), Lawison Somana (sax), Ochudis, Mandali Otis Musa, Zengele Saida (guitar), Beya Maduma (a.k.a. Moro Maurice, sax player from orch Veve, later a solo artist in Abidjan), & guitar soloist Roxy Tshimpaka (later of Choc Stars, then Zaiko Langa Langa).

Peter Toll adds: the formation which arrived in Kampala in 1974 was fronted by singers Djodjo Ikomo and Fataki Lokassa, both former members of Orch. Tabou National, a band that was founded by Tony Dee Bokito in 1970. After Tony Dee moved to Mbandaka in 1972, several musicians left the band and Ikomo started working with Orch. Veve with whom he recorded his 1973 song "Maina" (Veve 159). Ikomo was also one of the founders of Orch. Bana Modja with whom he released his compostion "Mayatu" (1974).
Other members of Bana Moja were bass player Manitcho and guitarist Roxy Tshimpaka (ex-Thu Zaina). During their stay in Uganda the group produced a few records that were later released as 45 RPMs on the African label:
African 90853 - Mayatu Pt 1 & 2 (Ed. Bana Moja, later redone for the LP "Maya Tu", KR 1007).
African 90984 - Azonga / Koyoka koyoka (Ed. Bana-Moja 02)
African 90985 - Okei kolakate nika / Na bangi makambo (Ed. Bana-Moja 03)
African 90986 - Mabaku Pt 1 & 2 (Ed. Bana-Moja 04)

In 1975, Bana Moja moved to Nairobi, where a number of musicians regrouped under the name Bana Ngenge. Unfortunately, the band split the following year, with Ikomo and Moreno leaving to join Les Noirs. Meanwhile, Fataki Lokassa travelled with a remnant of Bana Ngenge to Tanzania where the band finally collapsed.

The music Bana Ngenge recorded was released in Kenya on a label called Bana Moja. So, although Bana Moja didn't exist as a band from 1975 on (that is, until Ikomo's return to Zaire in the early 1980s), the name still continued as a record label. Apparently, in the old days quite a number of musicians were selling and licensing recordings and running their own label. For example see the many 45 RPMs on Editions Ntimbo by Orch. Sentima, Top Forum & Festival du Zaire. And also Coco Zigo had his own label, Editions Zigo, that released Orch. Bangambo, Shama Shama & Bansomi Lay Lay.

In 1976 when Bana Ngenge broke up, Moreno & Jojo (or Djo Djo) joined Les Noirs and scored a hit with "Tshiku" (on AFRICAN STARS COLLECTION Vol 3). Other members of Les Noirs included Mukaputu Kalemby Kajos, William Tambwe Lokassa (bass), Mankwazi Duki Dieudos & Chuza Kabaselleh. Dieudos left Kenya and returned to Zaire in the early 80s where he played with Tiers Monde, later he moved to Belgium and hooked up with Dalienst. Kuka & Les Noirs scored a hit with "Mungu iko Helena," and Chuza and les Noirs hit with "Sikiya sauce," (composed by Dieudos Makwanzi) both on ANCIENT SUCCES (ASLP 426), dated 1973. (Jojo was later in Empire Bakuba.) Kuka was Mathieu Kuka composer of the classic "BB69" a hit for African Jazz in the 1960s. He was in Kenya with Les Noirs in the 70s but returned to Kinshasa where today he leads Afric'Ambiance.

After the split up of Bana Ngenge in 1976, Fataki Lokassa moved to Tanzania and carried on with other members of the group for a short while. In 1978 Fataki returned to Nairobi where he joined Les Kinois (later Virunga). He died on Dec 11, 2006 in Dar-Es-Salaam. Peter Toll adds: "As for Ikomo, he left Kenya in 1980 and moved back to Zaire. With a new Orch. Bana Modja he made some recordings for the Kinerama label (LP Maya Tu, KR 1007 [1982]) but by the mid 1980s, he had joined Franco's OK Jazz. He later ended up in Empire Bakuba."

"As for the name change Bana Moja / Bana Ngenge -- I think this really had to do with the person in charge. With Fataki the band was called Bana Ngenge, with Ikomo it was Bana Moja."


From 1978-80 Moreno was based in Dar-es-Salaam where he sang with Safari Sound before returning to Kenya. Back in Nairobi in 1980 he started Moja One where he teamed with tenor Coco Zigo Mike, guitarist Siama Matuzungidi and drummer Lava Machine (with other musicians from Shika Shika). Their biggest hits were "Pili Mswahili," "Dunia ni duara," (in 1981), & "Urembo si hoja." For some time in 1983, Moreno briefly joined Samba Mapangala's Orchestra Virunga in what was perhaps the group's most star-studded line-up ever. The group which turned the now defunct Starlight Club into the hottest live-music nightspot in town, featured Coco Zigo, Fataki Lokassa, Dago Mayombe and later Moreno on vocals, along with Ottis and Samba Mapangala; Manitcho Nsilu, Sammy Mansita, Django Nkulu Mwilambwe, Bejos, Siama Matuzungidi and Beya Mikobi Dibuba on guitars, and others, some of whom were only briefly in the band. Siama recalls Lava Machine replaced Willy on drums and the trumpeter was named Kodila. The outfit later split three ways to create Vundumuna, Ibeba System and Virunga. But Moreno went solo. He mainly sang in Kiswahili and the themes of his songs varied from social commentaries like "Dunia ni Duara," "Mapenzi ya Shinda" and "Mwanamke Hatosheki," to love songs like "Angela" and "Pili Mswahili." This last was a song about his girlfriend, Pili Mikendo Kassim, a Tanzanian model he met in 1976 while with Orchestra Les Noirs in Mombasa. His 1993 chart topper was "Vidonge Sitaki," based on a Taraab song by Golden Star, but sadly he died the same year, aged only 38.

LOVY
High-voiced Lovy Mokolo Longomba came in the middle of a distinguished family. He was a brother of Awilo and son of Vicky Longomba, founding member of OK Jazz who created Lovy du Zaire in 1971. His twin sons Christian and Lovy are hip-hop stars in Kenya today. Lovy started his career at 18 with Orchestre Macchi. In 1976 he and Dindo Yogo with guitarist Nseka Huit Kilos left Macchi and formed Etumba na Ngwaka with singers Lofanga, Gaby Yau-Yau and Mukolo, lead vocals (who later died in Kenya). Huit Kilos, of course, went on to star with l'Afrisa International of Rochereau and now backs Ricardo Lemvo in Makina Loca, based in Los Angeles. In August 1978 Lovy left Kinshasa and moved to Nairobi where he joined Les Kinois, but three months later he quit that group for Boma Liwanza (Dindo Yogo meanwhile joined Viva la Musica, then Langa Langa Stars in 1981, and Tout Choc Anti Choc in 1983). After only 6 months with Boma Liwanza, Lovy was off again, to join Super Mazembe of Mutonkole Longwa Didos, and got the nickname "Ya Mama" because he would sing the high women's part in story songs. Band-mates included Joseph Okello Songa, Musa Olokwiso Mandala & Fataki Lokassa from Les Noirs. His hits included "Lovy," "Yo mabe," "Ndeko," "Nanga," "Mokano" and "Elena." Lovy left in 1981 & sang with Shika Shika for two years. He joined Mos Mos of Moises Fonta (with Monimambo and other members of his circle) before forming his own group Super Lovy on the AIT label and, to avoid a contractual conflict, used the name Bana Likasi when he recorded for Audio Productions Ltd (Their "Mado Zaina part 1" can be found on THE NAIROBI BEAT [Rounder]). He recorded several solo albums produced by Felix Jakomo. In "Lomama," Lovy namechecks Massamba, Felix, Dialukila and Monimambo, so we can assume they remained friends. He even quotes "Tika na lela"! He was a founder of Ibeba System, along with Dhago Mayombe, but never recorded with them. In 1988 Lovy went to Dar es Salaam and performed with Orch. Afriso Ngoma. Lovy Longomba died in a car crash in Tanzania in 1996.

Tabu Frantal, Lifenya Lorri and Mandefu wa Mandefu were also band members of Shika Shika. The latter wrote their hit "Bibi moke." Tabu Frantal released "Helena" on the Hudson label with Orchestre Malekesa du Zaire. Nsilu wa Bansilu Manitcho (who was in Japan, but is now back in Kenya, doing Gospel music) of Bana Ngenge was also in the band, occasionally playing bass: he's name-checked in the song "Tina." Siama Matuzungidi was the rhythm guitarist. Born in the Congo in 1953, he grew up at a Jesuit school where he had unlimited access to the music room. Inspired by Bavon Marie Marie, he started playing guitar with Orchestre Cavacha in 1971. In 1975 he was with Orchestre Bibicha until 1978 when he quit Kinshasa for Kampala, Uganda, where he joined Kombe Kombe. He recalls: "Coco Zigo took me to Uganda and we formed Kombe Kombe band; this was in 1978. The same year Lovy Longomba joined us in Kombe Kombe; and Kanda Bongo Man came with Bella Mambo band. We played in the same club Monday to Friday. We kind of mixed the two bands together and lived in the same house -- all of us together for maybe a year. We moved to Kenya in 1979 with Coco Zigo, while others went back to Zaire. In Kenya the first band was called Viva Makale: we played at the Garden Square which was ruled by Buami Walumona and George Kalombo and then from there musical life in Nairobi began." Siama, who was given the name "Mualimu" or Teacher because of his skill on the guitar, also played with Orchestra Shika Shika until 1980 when he was a founding member of Moja One. He remembers: " I composed "Sisili" and "Rebeca" with Shika Shika band. With Moja One I contributed ideas, composed, and played rhythm guitar parts." He was also in Virunga then Ibeba System for five years (1981-85), including a three-year stint in Tokyo. After playing with Losaka in 1994 and Shangoya (1995-2004) Siama started Marimba Africa in Minneapolis, where he now lives.

Coco Zigo Mike sang with Viva Stars in Kenya and later formed Losaka la Musica. He died in a Nairobi hospital in August 1998.

In the song "Amba," Masala, Longomba, Mutanda & Moni Mambo are name-checked. "Daina Akinyi", "Zainabu" (one of their members) and "Olivia" were other Shika Shika singles.

Guitarist Tabu Frantal (from Kisingani, Zaire where he played with Orchestre Succès Le Peuple) formed Boma Liwanza in 1972, with former members of Orchestre Revolution. They toured East & Central Africa frequently and ended up in Nairobi, touring the Indian Ocean islands and Madagascar. In 1981 Boma Liwanza dissolved and Frantal starred with Shika Shika until their dissolution two years later. In 1984 he helped form Vundumuna (out of the break-up of Virunga), which featured his pal Nsilu Wabansilu Manysho who had gone from Boma Liwanza to Shika Shika with him. Sammy Kasule was another member of Vundumuna, as was keyboardist Botango Bedjil, a.k.a. B.B. Mo-Franck. Vundumuna was the top band in Kenya for two years. In 1987, B.B. Mo-Franck took Vundumuna to Japan for a six month contract, making them the first purely African band to play live in Tokyo. Drummer Lava Machine died in December 2005 while still living in Japan. Tabu Frantal also collaborated with vocalist Lessa Lessan (ex-African Fiesta Sukisa), who went on to form Orchestre Popolipo. Frantal has started a new Orchestra Vundumuna in Nairobi in 2006.

-- Alastair Johnston, with additions from Siama Matuzungidi, Cheeku Bidani, Ethan Bloomberg, Douglas Paterson & Peter Toll; & The World of African Music Vol 2 by Ronnie Graham.


courtesy Afro7 net

Bana Ekanga


(An offshoot of Baba Nationale, featuring female vocalist Nana Akumu wa Kudu, also of Pepelepe)

45s:

Nziki-Nziki 1 & 2 (CBS Linga 12) ca. 1980-81
Haraka Haina baraka [Nanu Akumu] Eds Shika-Shika SKA003
Liwa ya mama Tabu 1 & 2 (ASL 2292) 1981

Bana Moja (a.k.a. Bana Modja)


(Bana Modja were DjoDjo Ikomo's group whom he left behind in Kinshasa when he went to Uganda. In Kampala he teamed up with some Veve musicians and they moved to Nairobi in 1975 but soon disbanded. When DjoDjo returned to Zaire he regrouped with his old bandmates)
Note from Mbokamosika blog:
On the origins of Bana Modja: The group was formed by Thomas & Felly Ndjoku, the sons of N'Djoku Ey'Obaba, former governor of Kinshasa, and their cousins Jojo & Alexis Ikomo. Bana means offspring and they were literally from the same family. Thomas Ndjoku was also owner of the Bana Modja label and produced many bands such as Yoka Lokole, the breakout band from which Papa Wemba and many members of Zaiko and Viva La Musica emerged. They were called "Belgicains," because they studied abroad, when they returned they were shunned by their parents for taking to music so moved to N'Djili, Zaire on their return. Because of family pressure they did not tour and perform but rather concentrated on recording and issuing 45s. Felly went on to be the arranger for Lita Bembo. Thomas became a Christian minister and continues as a gospel artist. Jojo went on to work with Pepe Kallé and plays the occasional gig with old pals.

Personnel:
Jojo Ikomo, Fataki Lokassa, Moreno = vox
Roxy Tshimpaka, guitar solo
Nsilu Wabansilu Manitcho (bass)
Lawison Somana (sax), Ochudis, Mandali Otis Musa
Zengele Saida (guitar)
Beya Maduma (a.k.a. Moro Maurice), sax

The Kin-based band, known as the Belgicains because they all studied in Belgium, formed in the early 80s included:
Boutié (tenor)
Dada Akoma (bass; later with Langa Langa Stars)
Gérard (harmony singer)
Petit Mando (drums)
Elvis Kunku (2nd guitar; later with Empire Bakuba)

LP:
Ikomo Djo-Djo & Orch. Bana Modja: Maya Tu

(Kina-Rama LP KR1007)
(Recorded by Mayaka Esongama, Kinshasa, distributed by Sonodisc, Paris)
1. Amour Go
2. Kaiba
3. Maya Tu
4. Souvenir Go

45s:
Bona
Maya tu 1 & 2 (Ed. Bana Moja, later redone for the LP "Maya Tu", KR 1007; reissued African 90853)
Azonga / Koyoka koyoka (Ed. Bana-Moja 02; reissued African 90984)
Okei kolakate nika / Na bangi makambo (Edi. Bana-Moja 03; reissued African 90985)
Mabaku 1 & 2 (Ed. Bana-Moja 04; reissued African 90986)
Miseminga
Londia (Kina Rama 2)
Munsi b/w Manz (EMI/Pathé PEA215)


Bana Ngenge


"The new Bana Moja was formed out of members of Orch Veve, led by Jojo Ikomo and Fataki Lokassa, on tour in Uganda. The band disbanded in 1975 with several members moving to Kenya where they regrouped as Bana Ngenge but only lasted a year before splitting again. Bana Ngenge the label, seems to have been created to release Bana Ngenge records and its name outlasted the band." -Tim Clifford

Line-up:
Djo-Djo Ikomo, Fataki Lokassa, Moreno - vocals
Roxy Tshimpika - lead guitar
Zengele Saida - guitar
Chery Matumona - guitar
Nsilu Wabansilu Manitcho - bass
Maurice Beya Maduma - sax
Lawison Somana - sax
Ochudis, Mandali Otis Musa
Lava Machine (?) - drums

45:

Bana ya Ngenge
Belinda
Bo moto Manytsho (Musiki du Zaire mz7-102) 1976
Cherie Flora [Ingange Ikomo Jojo] or Cherie Flower?
Cherie Peter
Clara
Etisomba [Fataki Lokassa] Bana Moja BANA 13
Kayumba [Ingange Ikomo Jojo]
Kolokota [Fataki Lokassa] Eds BABU 012
Kombe Kombe [Ingange Ikomo Jojo]
Lobe Lobe [Fataki Lokassa] Bana Moja BANA 9
Malanda [Fataki Lokassa] Bana Moja BANA 14
Msema Kweli Baba [Fataki Lokassa] Eds JACA JRP12
Mwajuma [Zengele Saida]
Nairobi
Nzela ya Mombasa Wakuze [Mandala Muissa] (Musiki du Zaire MZ100) (p)1975 Bokuku
Omanga [Fataki Lokassa] Tobina Editions TON16
Seline

Bana Ngenge Stars Popote
Dunia Imelaniwa 1 & 2 Universal Sounds USD005


Mange-Ngenge Orchestre


(Yet another formation with Coco Zigo)

45s:
Sugar Mami [] Editions Ba-Ba EB12 (1977)
Aori 1 & 2 [Mukala Coco] Editions Ba-Ba EB13

Bana Nzadi


See under Moreno

Boma Liwanza

Personnel (1972-81):
Lola Shango, leader
Tabu Frantal, guitar, founder
Roy Mosanda, guitar (also in Shika Shika?)
Christopher Eshu, founder
Nsilu Wabansilu, bass
Monimambo Jim, vocals
Lovy Longomba, vocals
Kikuni "Mbongo Pasi" Bercky
Tabu Batchalinge Ogolla
Loboko Pasi
Boli

LPs:
Boma Liwanza: Kibush Mambo (cbs africa jslp003) see image at top of page

A:
Back to Africa
Mono (Mbongo Pasi - Bercy)
Sina Mambo 1 (Kikuni-Bercky-Mbongo Pasi)
B:
Boma Liwanza Special (Instrumental)
Sina Mambo 2 (Kikuni-Bercky-Mbongo Pasi)
Bilobela (Kikuni - Mbongo Pasi)
(Note: In "Bilobela" the band yells out "Shika yele," possibly the origin of the catch phrase.)

Boma Liwanza, the International Orchestra: The Sounds of Africa (JET STAR jslp...)

A:
Mono 1 & 2 (Mbongo Pasi - Bercy)
Sina Mambo 1 & 2 (Kikuni-Bercky-Mbongo Pasi)
B:
Bilobela 1 & 2 (Kikuni - Mbongo Pasi)
Masua Mabe 1 & 2 (Kikuni - Mbongo Pasi)

CD:
Boma Liwanza 2 (Melodica, Nairobi)
Nakoka te
Mwana Mobali
Lisolo ya Ndako
Nirvana
Cafe con Leche
Mbanda Tubi

There are six tracks on here, credited to Boma Liwanza, but don't get your hopes up. First of all the whole thing is less than half an hour, and secondly it was recorded, it seems to me, at the wrong speed, so all the tracks sound too fast. Plus the last one sounds like it was recorded on a cheap tape deck off the radio! I doubt that was the band's intention. The whole thing is also overmodulated, to really ruin your enjoyment of this band, but then again I am not sure it IS Boma Liwanza. The best track on here is "Cafe con Leche," the most amazing take off of OK Jazz ever achieved by another band. The guitarist goes off on one of those demonic two-fingered leads between choruses and is egged on by people yelling "Juba," one of whom sounds like Sam Mangwana. According to kentanzavinyl.com, "Café con Leche b/w Nirvana" is a single on the Pathé label (PEA 217) by Mundemba & His Underground, so two of the tracks credited to Boma Liwanza are actually by Mundemba, about whom there is no information on line. The other four tracks are almost certainly by them, having appeared on two 1973 SOMO 45s as A-side and B-side.

Boma Liwanza 45s:
Atosha Na Furaha b/w Tumbamado - Somo SM7-8010 (1973)
Bambanda ya Batchi 1 & 2 () Pathé 101
Baruti - Somo SM7-8001 1973
Bolingo Happy 1 & 2 () Pathé 105
Bridgita 1 & 2 - ASL 3386 (1980)
Brother Man 1 & 2 () Pathé 107
Catharine Obebisi b/w Omeka Tembe - Somo SM7-8011 (1973)
Diabaza 1 & 2 (Jim Monmambo?) Bana Moja BANA34 -- same as Diabanza by Shika Shika?
Easter 1 & 2 () Pathé 103
Elengene [a.k.a. Café con Leche?]
Fauzia 1 & 2 () Pathé 106
Jera Inn 1 & 2 [Kikuni, Mbongo, Pasi] Jera Inn GOO 001
Lisolo Ya Ndako b/w Mbanda Tubi - Somo SM7-8002 (1973)
Ma Bibi b/w Mary Akinyi (AFRICA AFR7-47 1973)
Masua Mabe 1 & 2 [Kikuni - Mbongo Pasi] Sango SAN22 1979
Milimani 1 & 2 [Monimambo Jim] ASL 3376 (March 1979)
Miwela wela 1 & 2 - ASL 3378 (Nov. 1979)
Nakoka Te b/w Mwana Mobali - Somo SM7-8006 (1973)
Ngai Bebe b/w Wilermina (AFRICA AFR50 1973/4)
Sina Mambo 1 & 2 (Kikuni - Bercky - Mbongo Pasi) Super Musiki du Zaire (1978?)
Siza 1 & 2 () Pathé 100
Sofia 1 & 2 () Pathé 104
Wema piyame 1 & 2 () Pathé 105
Zala serieux 1 & 2 (AFRICA AFR 7-48 1973)
Zawadi ya mwaka 1 & 2 () Pathé 102
[Note: Thanks to Kentanzavinyl.com for most of the info]


courtesy KenTanza

Special Liwanza

Personnel (1975-81):
Jimy Monimambo, vocals
Sammy Kasule*, singer/bass guitarist
Lifenya Lorry, vocals?
Tabu Saidi Ogolla
Ali? sax
& undoubtedly some of the above band, Boma Liwanza, including Tabu Frantal (guitar), & Lovy Longomba (vocals)
(*According to KenTunes, Sammy Kasule was born in Uganda. He fled to Kenya and joined Les Noirs. He also played with Vundumuna and recorded two solo albums: Kasule and Muziki. Since 1991 he has lived in Sweden and has a band named Makonde, with whom he sings & plays bass.)

LP:
Kanaitsa (AIT records, EBLP 01, 1977)
Side 1
Kanaitsa Pts 1 & 2 (Monimambo Jim)
May Pts 1 & 2 (Sammy Kasule)
Side 2
Ayoma Wa Bunyore Pts 1 & 2 (Lifenya Lorry)
Basi Ya Dumba Pts 1 & 2 (Monimambo Jim)

Produced by Daudi Kabaka
Sleevenotes (courtesy of Tim Clifford):
Ntshimba Monimambo - better known as "JIMY" was born in 1949 November, 15th at Kinshasa Zone Barumbu.

Went to St. Paul School - Barumbu for six years, left in Standard Six and proceeded to College to study mechanics for two years during which he developed a love of music - becoming a musician as a singer. He left the college in 1967 and joined Orchestra TAMPALA - in 1968 as a Vocalist. He did only one year in TAMPALA and in 1969 he joined Orchestra LOS ANGEL of Reuben Mawa.

In 1970 he left Los Angel and joined Orchestra VIPER NOIRS. In 1971 he left Viper Noirs to join Orchestra CERCUL JAZZ in Congo Brazzaville. In the same year he left Cercul Jazz after six months to join Orchestra Super Vox in Isiro Province of Zaire then lead by the famous Bijos Bikasi. In 1973 he joined Orchestra Success Mwachana in Kendu Town of Kivu Province. From there is when he joined the Boma Liwanza of Mzee Shango Lola with which he came to East Africa in 1974. As he puts it in his own words, "This is the man who really taught me real music. I mean Mzee Shango Lola. This made me realise that all that I had been doing was just not good enough".

In 1975 he left Boma Liwanza and formed his own Band Orchestra SPECIAL LIWANZA which he leads until today.

This is his first album and he hopes it is going to be worth the whole lot of trouble he took to DO-IT-UP for the sake of his good and faithful FANS.

Special Liwanza 45s:
Ayoma (Editions Ba-Ba EB9) 1976
Chris Uniponye (Editions Les: Tremor 3)
Elisa [Monimambo Jim] editions Mwana Mama MM22
Elisa Warimo (Editions Ba-Ba EB10) 1977
Kanai (Editions Ba-Ba EB8) 1977
Mama Fefe [Monimambo Jim] editions Mwana Mama MM16
Maria Chantale [Tshimba Monimambo] (Editions Ba-Ba EB11) 1977
Masasu [Monimambo Jim] editions Mwana Mama MM17
Mwale [Tabu Saidi "Ogalah"] Golden Toddy; also City Boom CB1
Sue Iko [Tabu Atchatchambala] Editions Chris CJ 015
Towumelite 1976 (Editions Ba-Ba EB7-2)
Vicky 1976 (Editions Ba-Ba EB1)
Zumba [Monimambo Jim] editions Mwana Mama WEM5

Liwanza Komecha

Juliana 1 & 2 (Lifenya Lorri & Liwanza Komecha) Eds BABU 006
Ayoma wa Bunyore 1 & 2 (Lifenya Lorri) Eds BABU 005
Liongela 1 & 2 () Eds BABU 0080


Bwambe Bwambe and Super Bwambe

LP:

MAMA YA LEKI (CBS LINGA LP 001 1980)
A1: Nya Siaya (Terry) [Kayembe Nyonga]
2: Fatia [Kayembe Nyonga]
B1: Mama ya leki pts 1 & 2 [Kayembe Nyonga]
B2: Maria-Fellia [Luboya wa Tshiteyai]

Liner notes: Orchestre Super Bwambe was formed in February 1977 by [singer] Kayembe Nyonga and Luboya wa Tshiteyai. Kayembe Nyonga was born on 19 January 1945 in Lubumbashi, Zaire. He has been a member of several bands such as VILE KITE JAZZ, SUPER BELLA and BABA ILUNGA WA ILUNGA. He is pleased to present his new LP which is titled "Mama ya Leki" on CBS Records. Kayembe with his group SUPER BWAMBE BWAMBE signed with CBS Records in January 1980. [Doug Paterson]

Super Bwambe 45:

Nya Siaya 1 & 2 [Kayembe Nyonga] Linga LNG 001 1980
Councillor 1 & 2 (single on Editions Chris cassette)
Atikapo [Kalombo Mwanza] Editions Chris CHRIS 15
Akinyi wa Homa Bay 1 & 2 (Eds CHRIS 24)
Salongo 1 & 2

Orchestre Fuka Fuka


Kinzunga Rico, founder and guitarist, was a Veve studio musician (as their double-barreled name suggests) who had played with Les Kamale and Lipua Lipua and wrote "Niki Bue" which was a hit for Lipua Lipua. Tshibau Mulembu and Tshimanga Assosa (both also ex-Lipua Lipua) were the vocalists. Tshimanga Assosa had sung with Negro Succès of Bavon Marie Marie, but after Bavon's tragic death had left Kinshasa to look for work in Tanzania with a new group called Maquis du Zaire. In 1980 Assosa moved to Nairobi and joined Orchestre Makassy for the session that included his hit "Mambo Bado," released in UK on Virgin. I am not certain Fuka Fuka were resident in East Africa but certainly had fans there.

45s:

Bitota [Mulembu Tshibau] ASL 7-3352 (Eds Mabele)
Babokilo {} ASL 3356N
Lomeka {} ASL 3359
Mbiya [Tshimanga Assosa] ASL 7-3367 (Eds Mabele)
Baba Isaya {} ASL 3374N

Baba Gaston


LPs:


L'Orchestre Baba National dans Celibataire / Pesa Pesa
(AIT [Kenya] LP101 Licensed from Ogoua Int'l Records, Abidjan)
A1: Kanga Motema Kianda [Baba Gaston]
2: Celibataire [Baba Gaston]
B1: Epuka Tabia Mbaya
2: Pesa-Pesa
[Courtesy Alan Wheeler; Tim Clifford adds: "The B-side of the album seems to include two songs originally issued as singles on the Super Matatu label. Epuka Tabia Mbata Pts 1 & 2, MTU 3, by Juwata Jazz and Pesa Pts 1 & 2, MTU 4, by V.M. Malaika Weusi, who recorded for Simba wa Taita as Vuria Mwangeka Malaika Weusi."]


20th ANNIVERSARY (POLP 900)

info needed

GREATEST HITS VOL 1 (POLP 901; ASLP 901)
A: Ilunga-Ilunga Pt1; Ilunga-Ilunga Pt2; Mpenzi ya Mperemen De [Pipi]; Mangelepa;
B: Mei Pt1; Mei Pt2; Ain Souci; Ngai Nayo Dialoguete

Liner notes (courtesy of Alan Wheeler): At last PHONOGRAM (KENYA) Ltd has come out with Something Special -----something which has long been awaited. This Long Play by Orchestre Baba National should have been as ordinary as any other LP released in this country, but it is not.
This LP is special for obvious reasons: the music is of high quality and in the tradition of Baba Ilunga wa Ilunga "Gaston" himself who is noted for his tremendous sense of perfection: This LP has been made more special in the sense that most of the tracks have never been released before. You will enjoy the super hits like Mbula ya basi, Mapenzi ya Peremende, Mama Bana & Magenlepa and many more.
Besides the high quality of music -- not forgetting the best quality of recording -- there are other important factors which make this LP to be even more Special.
It does also commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Orchestre Baba National and 40th Anniversary of Baba Ilunga himself. And it is also the first LP by Baba Ilunga wa Ilunga in East Africa....
He was born 5th July 1936 at Likasi -- about 100 kilometers east of Lumbumbashi, the capital of Shaba Province in the Republic of Zaire. His main interest in music was prompted by the church choir.
When he was nine years old, Baba Ilunga wa Ilunga was a member of the Roman Catholic Church Choir at Likasi and Lumbumbashi and he attributes his initial success in music to his first teacher -- Joseph Kiwele -- who composed so many religious songs in Shaba Province in the early fifties.
Baba Ilunga wa Ilunga became a professional musician between 1951 and 1952 when he joined an all-white group -- the Orchestre de la Sabene -- in Lumbumbashi.
It is while in this orchestra when he composed what was to become his famous hit -- Baba Gaston. Baba Ilunga wa Ilunga owes his success in the field of profession music to his late Greek teacher -- Leonidas Rapitis -- who was a noted composer and pianist in the Republic of Zaire.
Rama Athumani, Taifa Weekly, Nairobi, 10th January, 1976.

GREATEST HITS VOL 2 (POLP 933)

info needed



REVIVAL (ASLP 1004 1985)
A1: Adios chou chou
Vichwa viwili
B1: You love my friend
Kosa gani omeer

SAFARI (ASLP 1006 1985)
A: Nazonga mboka
Safari ya Tanzania
B: Nyongo mpenda watu
Que sera sera

BRUXELLES A BUTEMBO ASLP 983 (1983)
A.1. Bruxelles a Butembo
2. Okozua Nini
B.1. Lengema Big Manager
2. Vituko Vya Harusi

CONDITION BI-MSUM ASLP 971 (1983)
A.1. Ekelekele
2. Hello Hello
B.1. Rudi Nyumbani Africa
2. Condition Bi-Msum
This LP was recorded at Studio Minzoto (Zaire) with singer Stazo Ya Esta (= Starzo ya Esta, Stazo Ya Estha). I assume Baba Gaston recorded this album with Kinshasa musicians during a trip to Zaire. [Peter Toll]

Baba National


Baba National 45s:
Affaire Zua b/w Piele Boniko? [Kabila Kabanza/Baba Ilunga] ASL 7-1515 1973
Assana-Nela 1 & 2 [Ilunga wa Ilunga] ASL 2254
Bembeleza Bolingo (ASL2241)
Bonne Annee New Year (ASL 2212)
Caesar Moyibi (on CD; see below)
Celibataire 1 & 2 (Editions Ba-Ba Kenya single IWI-5)
Fungola Matoli toli B. N. (ASL 2165N)
Guanzo (Ed Ba-Ba IWI-7)
Idd Mubarak 1 & 2 (ASL 2208N)
Ilunga Ilunga 1 & 2 (ASL 2086) 1975
"Ilunga Ilunga" is on ANCIENT SUCCESS VOLUME ONE (ASLP426) & the CD listed below
Kai Kai (collected on the CD below)
Kakolele Viva Xmas [Baba Ilunga] (featuring Moreno) ASL 7-2164 1976
Kiolela [Nana] ASL 2249 1979
Lofundu ya Pamba
Lolo Twisonge
Lulu Masamba 1 & 2 (IWI 6) Madaraka kwa yaya 1 & 2 (Ilunga wa Ilunga) Edition Kamanyola KAM14
Mapenzi ya peremende b/w Mke Mwenzangu (ASL 2179N)
Maria Clara
Mboka Mopaya
Musao Iyambi b/w Lukengo Kiwelewele (Sindimba SIN 14)
Naleli Big Manager Lengema 1 & 2 [Ilunga wa Ilunga] ASL2260N (AS4711)
Nazonga Mboka (ASL2347)
Ngai Baba Nakosambwa (IWI 7/2)
Ngai Muana nazongi (Stazo ya Estha) b/w Lofundu ya Pamba (Tshondo 11: reissue African 90.505 1971)
Ngai Nabeleli (collected on CD; see below)
Pembeni ya mbanda b/w Separation na mutawa [Lutulu; B. Ilunga/Sangwa Ngulli] ASL 7-1523 1973
Pourquoi Fifi? IWI 7/1
Rosi b/w Kiswahili lugha ya Africa Sindimba SIN3
Sakina mama b/w Mamango bokata Kikambo [Sangwe; Baba Ilunga] Sindimba SIN13
Seli Tutu (ASL2247)
Soul Safari (Wangoya No 2) b/w Mama bea nakokate [Ilunga wa Ilunga] ASL 1536 1974
Tokosamba b/w Baba Gaston No 3 (ASL 2123)
Unyumba sio lela b/w Tokisana tata Kabassele ASL EP001
Vituko Vya Mama Mkwe (Eds Ba-Ba IWI-8) Wangoya
Winnie
Zala Reconnaisant Fa Fan b/w FC Lupopo Bana ya tembe (ASL 1520)

Baba Gaston & Orch Tchondo National "Kalai" pts 1 & 2 YAHOOS YS001
Orch Tchondo Nationale "Mwambusa" [Evanika] YAHOOS YS002

Cassettes:
Amisi Omonelinga
Nyongoo Mpenda Watu

45:

Elongi ya Petolo 1 & 2 (KMG5201 1976)

CDs:
Greatest Hits vol 1 (Tamasha) probably recorded in Congo 1970
1. Marie Clara
2. Caesar ya Maobi [sic] i.e. Caesar Moyibi
Ngai mwana nazongi [vocals by Starzo ya Estha]
3. Lolo Twisonge
4. T.P. Engelbert
5. Lofundu ya pamba
6. Mboka mopaya pasi
7. Wa Ngoya
*Muddy sound. See my review on Music of Congo page 3.

Baba Gaston: Baba Ilunga Ilunga & Ngai Nabeleli (Tamasha)
1. Kai Kai 4'40
2. Ngai Nabeleli 8'38
3. Winnie 9'01
4. Ilunga wa Ilunga 8'36
5. Baba Gaston 3'39
6. Rudi Shambani a.k.a. Safari ya Tanzania 8'27
7. Qui Sera Sera 9'12
8. Africa au Zaire 8'47
* Note: Beware of a mislabelled version of this CD available from various download sites such as Amazon and Limewire. It is actually a Negro Sucèss album. I have listed the track times above to help in identification.

Grand Piza


Band associated with the Bana Moja label, so perhaps connected with Fataki Lokassa, and a popular rival to the Veve groups in Kenya and Uganda. Makengo Roy was a member and songwriter, also associated with Orch Mandalala (as this was one of their hits, perhaps it became the name of a splinter group). Other members were Aimé and Mbo. There's a Bana Ngenge track on their Melodica comp; maybe they were an offshoot of them.

45s:
Napemi 1 & 2 [Mbo] (Bana Moja BANA 17)
Bokila 1 & 2 (Bana Moja BANA 27)
Fouati 1 & 2 [Aime] (Bana Moja BANA 28)
Naleli Mama 1 & 2 (Bana Moja BANA 29)
Muana Mawa
Mandalala
Kisangani 1 & 2 (Diabim 8)
Keba na zuwa (Diabim 12)
Ombatela 1 & 2 (Diabim 13)
Yo Zairois ngai Zairoise 1 & 2 (Diabim 17)

CD:
Muana Mawa

(Melodica, Nairobi: A CD made from a cassette?)
1. Mwana mawa pt 1
2. Mwana Mawa pt 2
3. Koliya mpesa
4. Bana Moja
5. Bona
6. Mama alobi na bala
7. Mbomoko Mobayi
8. Makuela
9. Etisomba
(This last cut is by Bana Ngenge, don't know what it's doing on here.)

Les Jaca


Les Jaca was created by Lovy when he decided to leave Super Mazembe in 1981. He went into the studio with Siama and other friends, but the attempt bore no fruit, so Lovy remained with Super Mazembe. Editions JACA was created to publish Shika Shika and Viva Stars. A. C. Kochomo was the producer and he issued at least 40 singles. Another offshoot was Editions Tobina, who published Bana Ngenge, Jaca and Pepelepe. See kentanzavinyl.
45:

Adija Adisi [Lovy]
Christmas 1 & 2 (Eds Tobina TON 31)
Kamulewe 1 & 2 (Edition Jaca JRP28) 1983
Papi Guicain 1 & 2 (Editions Tobina TON 7-02)
Sakii [Frantal Tabu] Tobina TON21
Shemeji (Eds Bana-Likasi BAS 5)


SAMBA MAPANGALA
Photo: copyright David Gaar, Madison WI 2007

Les Kinois

For the biography of this group and Orchestre Virunga see Samba Mapangala's website

Personnel:
Samba Mapangala - Band Leader and lead vocalist;
Pele Ondindia - Assistant Band Leader, Bass Guitarist and vocalist;
(Iliko) Madjo Maduley - Assistant Band Leader and vocalist;
Bedjo Mikombi - lead (Soloist);
Bibiley Kabakaba - Assistant Lead (Soloist);
Okelo Josse - rhythmnist;
Niki Djo - Bass and (lead-solo) Pop Music;
Faustao Temopele, the dynamic (Drummer) boy;
Kasule Mopepe, Tumba (Kongas).
"All members of Les Kinois come from Kinshasa (Zaire) besides Kasule Mopepe from Uganda and Okelo Josse from Kenya." [DP]

LP: LES KINOIS (A.I.T. WLP/3LK)
1978; produced by Felix G. Jakomo Jr.
A: Coco 1 & 2
Asha 1 & 2
B: Mukungukilua 1 & 2
Les Kinois 1 & 2

Les Kinois 45s:
Asha
Coco
Mukungukilva
Le Kinois
(Previous four tracks collected on World Record Company, WLP/3LK i.e. AIT label, 1978)

Achieng [Pele Ondindia] Editions les Kinois LK008
Ami Abouma (Linga 13)
Ba-Boka (Lake Victoria LAS 3046; also Super Musiki du Zaire SMZ001) 1978
Cherie Nata (Eds. Les Kinois LK009)
East Africa (Musiki du Zaire MZ21)
Fwaya (Editions Chris 16)
Furaha ya Christmas [Diabanza; Niki; Djo] (Eds. Les Kinois LK006)
Lisano (Musiki du Zaire MZ22)
Malako (Eds Les Kinois LK001)
Mother-Father (ASL 3387 1980)
Semeki-Siama (Eds. Les Kinois LK005)
Sunday 1 & 2 [Madjo; Madule] (Eds Les Kinois LK004)
Susana (Samba Mapangala SAM001)
Taabu ya Masikini (Editions les Kinois LK12)
Toweli nini (City Boom CB11)
Yena oboyi libala (Editions Chris 21)

MALAKO DISCO ORIGINAL (CD from Melodica in Nairobi, which has applause grafted on):
Malako
Mwana Mboko
Blanche Christmas
Sunday
Sigana Maronyango


Coco Zigo on the mike, courtesy of Siama Matuzungidi

L'orchestre Kombe Kombe

Later incarnation of Shama Shama de Mopero, based in Kenya. Founded in Uganda by Coco Zigo, Lovy & Siama (guitar), before Viva Makale. Also known as Kombe Kombe "Buskas" on their first release. Since DjoDjo Ikomo was in the band and the name seems to have come from a song by Bana Ngenge, it's likely the band was a blend of Bana Moja/Bana Ngenge as well as Mopero's musicians.

45:

Mimi 1 & 2 [Koko] Eds Matunda ANA 003
Nyako-Nzanzi 1 & 2 (Koko Mike "M") VMS-1
Saba Saba 1 & 2 (Koko Mike "M") VMS-2
Sau-Sauda 1 & 2 (Coco Zigo Mike) AIT EIT-03
Souzy Body 1 & 2 (Eds Sapato/CBS CCE-1)

Lifenya Lorri & Liwanza Komecha
See under Special Liwanza

Lovy Longomba

LPs:
Orch. Super Lovy: "First Album" LVLP 01 (1981)
A.1. Pitie
A.2. Dada
B.1. Bibi
B.2. Elee
(All songs composed by Lovy)

LOVY 2 (LVLP411):
Mete (Lovy)
Lomama (Lovy)
B: Annie
Eli

(In "Lomama," sung in Lingala, we hear a namecheck for Felix [Jacomo, the producer of Super Lovy and Super Mazembe], then Boka, Massamba Maquis & Dialu Kila (who were the consular staff and Ambassador of Zaire at the time), Misele, Monimambo, Pierrot, Eddy, Lava Machine, & Lovy. They also quote the songs "Mado Zaina" & "Tika na lela." Sammy & Manitcho get a shout-out in "Annie.") Other band members were Chery Matumona (lead guitar), Bibiley (guitar), Siama (guitar), Lawi Somana (sax), Manitcho (bass guitar), Jackino or Jacky (singer) and Shabani on drums.

LOVY AIT LV LP03: Third album Nelly

Nelly
Lela
2: Pital
Keba-yo

Liner notes: Produced by Felix Jacomo (G.A.)
LOVY MOKOLO LONGOMBA
Since the early days with Super Mazembe, LOVY has always been a fantastic and prolific composer -- remember "Lovy," "Yo mabe," "Ndeko," "Nanga," Mokano" and "Elena."
The Lovy voice too is something special and has an unmistakeable sound that just cannot be copied by any other Lingala artist, no matter how hard they may try. This has given LOVY a special fan club, and for those fans, here are more of the HOT AND HIGH SOUNDS OF LOVY.


[label courtesy of Alan Wheeler]

Bana Likasi


Lovy Longomba with Bana Likasi: "Mado Zaina part 1" on THE NAIROBI BEAT (Rounder Records 5030)

Lovy with Orchestre Super Lovy

45s:
(From Muttu Mondiya Mama on Julian Thorpe's page; and big thanks to Rufus, Doug, Tim, and the gang)

Aya 1 & 2 (eds LOVY 06)
Bilangwela (Eds Suplov 5)
Elee 1 & 2 (eds LOVY 01)
Eli (Eds LOVY 05)
Etali Yomoko (12" UK single on Swahili Records 12 SWAH 001 1983)
Fatuma 1 & 2 (Lovy Longomba Mokolo) Eds Suplov SUPLOV010
Jose
Keba-yo 1 & 2 (eds LOVY 07)
Lovy Manicho
Mali Ya Baba
Mokili 1 & 2 (Eds LOVY 02)
Nairobi
Obaye Ngai / Emeda (ASL 3259 1971)
Salima
Talaka
Umasikini sio kilema 1 & 2 (eds LOVY 03)
Ye Ye Ye (eds LOVY 04)

EDITIONS CHRIS compilation VOL 3
A compilation album from the Chris Music Store in Nairobi with five complete 7' singles:
Orchestra Virunga: Mayopa 1 & 2
Super Bwambe: Councillor 1 & 2
Super Mazembe: Rossy Marrie 1 & 2
Super Lovy: Mwana Kisumu 1 & 2
Massima la Musica: Viva Christmas 1 & 2

Early recordings of Lovy & Dindo Yogo with L'Orchestre Macchi and Etumba na Ngwaka are heard on SUCCES DES ANNEES 70 vol 1 (NgoYarto EPP19)
"Yoka toli" and "Mokano" on JEUNES VEDETTES DES ANNEES 70 (Sonodisc CDS36546)
"Lola Mwana" on l'AFRIQUE DANSE (Sono 360 061)

Orchestra Makassy

Orchestra Makassy was formed in Uganda by Mzee Makassy and a number of Ugandan and Zairian musicians. In 1975 they were left Uganda for Tanzania and took up residency at the New Africa Hotel in Dar-es-Salaam. In Dar Es Salaam during the 1970s the most popular bands were formed by Zairean musicians who sang originally in Lingala, and later modified the music to fit the inflexion of the Kiswahili language. Orginally perfoming as a solo artiste at the New Africa Hotel, Mose Se Fan Fan went on to join Orchestre Makassy, with whom the first four tracks were recorded. The song "Chama Cha Mapinduzi," in praise of the Tanzanian independence party, had lyrics based on the words of the country's first president, Julius Nyrere.

The next four songs on the first session were issued as singles in East Africa and collected on the Greatest Hits LP. Most of these were updated in the studio and re-recorded for the Agwaya sessions done in Nairobi. The combination of their musicianship and the minimalistic production of Norman Mighell, who recorded them in 1982, produced what many regard one of the finest moments of East African rumba. [--Matt Temple]

Peter toll adds: As for Orch. Makassy, they were not based in Kenya but in Tanzania. When Makassy left for Nairobi to record "Agwaya" (1982), the band was already falling apart. Remmy Ongala stayed behind in Tanzania where he joined Super Matimila while Fan Fan Mosese quit Makassy in Kenya to start another Somo Somo band. The Makassy that produced AGWAYA had really only been playing together for three years or so.

The Radio Tanzanian Sessions (Dar es Salaam ca.1980)
Ciska (Makassy single EMK 07)
Molema (Makassy single EMK 05)
Bakokabolakate (Makassy single EMK 08)
Chama Cha Mapinduzi, a.k.a. "Muungano"
Mosese (Makassy single EMK 02)
Siku Ya Kufa
Athumani (Makassy single EMK 03)
Mume Wangu (Makassy single EMK 04)

[NB: the last 4 tracks are drawn from the Editions Makassy cassette "Makassy" (ZEMK/C1) --Peter Toll]

Another 45 on the Makassy label: Maggy 1 & 2 (Makassy single EMK 011)

The Nairobi AGWAYA Sessions (Recorded at CBS Nairobi & remixed in London 1982 for Virgin records release Virgin OVED84; reissued on CD on 2005: Legends of East Africa - Orchestra Makassy (ARC Music EUCD1909), with three bonus tracks, "Ubaya wa nini" from the same Nairobi session, and "Muungano" & "Mume Wangu" -- tracks previously recorded in Tanzania.)
Mambo Bado
Zimbabwe
Kulifilisika Sio Kilema
Nakolela Cherie
Mosese
Athumani
Mke Wangu
Molema
Ubaya Wa Nini

The Greatest Hits Of Makassy (AIT LP: EMKLP 01)
A.1. Molema
A.2. Athumani
B.1. Cisca
B.2. Mosese

Mose Se "Fan Fan" rose to stardom as lead guitarist with Franco & OK Jazz before heading East for a solo career. He also played with Lovy du Zaire, Orchestre Mi, Orchestre Makassy (in the late 70s), Orchestre Matimila and Maquis, as well as his own band Somo Somo. Other versions of "Ciska," "Molema," "Venus," and "Chama cha mapinduzi," recorded in Dar Es Salaam 1979, can be heard on BELLE EPOQUE (RetroAfric RETRO 7CD). After the death of Franco he formed Bana OK.

Orchestra Makassy 45:
Mambo Bado 1 & 2 (Eds Makassy EMK09)

Les Mangelepa


Personnel:
Bwamy Walumona (Simon) "Le capitaine" - lead guitar, chief of the orchestra
Kabila Kabanze "Evani" - lead vocal
Kelenga Nzaazi "ViVi" - vocal
Babibanga Wa Tshilumba "Kai Kai" - vocal, trumpet, trombone
Lutulu Kaniki "Macky" - vocal
Kasongo Fundi "Petit Jean" - drums, bass
Lukangika Maindusa "Moustang" - lead guitar, rhythm
Mwepe Mutshi "Cavalou" - trumpet
Lumwanga Mayombo "Ambassadeur" - rhythm, bass
Mukala Wa Mulumba "Bebe" - drums*
Tabu Ngongo Ildephonse "Supersax" - saxophone
Tshimanga Zadios - saxophone
Twikala Wa Twikale "Petit Pierre" - organ, lead guitar
Kabe Kimambe "Elombe" - organ, lead guitar
Kabebe Mukangwa "Picolo" - bass

additional personnel:
Tambwe Lokasa (William) bass
*i.e. Mukala Kanyinda (CoCo) tumba
Paddi (Ma Wau-Wau) saxophone

For a biography of the group see the liner notes to the ENDURANCE CD.

ENDURANCE (RETROAFRIC RETRO21CD)
Embakasi [Kalenga Nzaza Vivi]
Maindusa [Inkangika Maindusa]
Mimba [Kabila ka banze Evany]
Nyako Konya [Badi Banga wa Thsilumba]
Walter [Badi Banga wa Thsilumba]
Malawi Zikama [Kabila ka banze Evany]
Kanemo [Kalenga Nzaza Vivi]

MADINA ASLP 413 1985
A1. Madina
2. N'Kimba
B1. Lolo Mukena
2. Kamwala

Tour of Zambia (ZMPL EPA 001, original pressing from Zambia)
A: Djala 1 & 2
Tshibola 1 & 2
Mankwanzi 1 & 2
Tour of Zambia 1 & 2
Instrumental


FIRST ANNIVERSARY (ASLP 913 1978; on CD from Tamasha TAM0032)

"The Riot Continues . . . a year later"

Embakasi 1 & 2 [Kalenga Nzaadi "Vivi"]
Maindusa 1 & 2 [Lukangika Maindusa "Petit Mustang"]
Mimba 1 & 2 [Kabila Kabanze "Evani"]
Nyako-Konya [Babibanga wa Tshilumba "Kai-Kai"]

Personnel:
Bass, guitar = Twikale wa Twikale
Drums = Mukala wa Mulumba
Rhythm guitar, bass = Lumwanga Mayombo
Lead vocal = Kabila Kabanze
Band leader, guitar, manager = Bwamy Walumona
Percussion = Lukangika Maindus
Saxophone = Tabu Ngongo
Tenor trumpet = Mwepu Mutshi
Trumpet, vocals = Babibanga Tshilumba
Vocals = Kalenga Nzaazi
Vocals, Drums, bass = Kasongo Fundi
Recorded and mastered at Phonogram Ltd, Nairobi, in collaboration with JoJo Productions


ACTION ALL THE WAY a.k.a. "Walter" (Phonogram 1978 ASLP 919)

Walter 1 & 2
Halleluya 1 & 2
Maboko Pamba 1 & 2
Pambana Pambana 1 & 2

LIVE ON TOUR ASLP 921

no info

LISAPO ASLP928 1980 ?

no info

SECOND ANNIVERSARY (ASL LP2016 1978)
Walter (Kai Kai)
Pambana (Moustang')
Halleluya (Evani)
Maboko Pamba (Macky)

GOLDEN HITS of Mangelepa ASLP2017 1986?
A: Mangelepa Kamili (William)
Kizunguzungu (Kai Kai)
B: Trouble (Bwamy)
Sakina (Coco)

SAFARI YA MANGELEPA ASLP988 ALSO ASLP 2027
A: Safari ya Mangelepa
Zoao
B: Harare
Odesia

MANGELEPA / THE RIOT CONTINUES (Pathé EMI 82413 1977)
Mangalepa Kamili 1& 2
Sakina 1& 2
Nganga-Kimetu 1& 2
Ekubuku 1& 2

Cassette:

THE AFRICAN STARS COLLECTION VOL 5 (Jumbo Jet JJLP005) ca. 1990, see Natari website:

A.1. Ole Ole
A.2. Amua
B.1. Detchu
B.2. Dracular
(A reissue of old singles, also released on cassette as "Les Mangelepa with Hits like Amua, Dracular" - CASLP 2023 (1990); All songs composed by Koko Mukala Kanyinda), drummer and vocalist who paid his dues alongside Nico, Mangwana and Papa Noel in bands like Vox Africa & Cercul Jazz before joining Les Mangelepa in Nairobi in 1977.


[courtesy of Kentanzavinyl.com]
45:
Amua (ASL 2252/ AS 4670)
Aoko
Autostop 1 & 2 (ASL 2282 1981)
Beyande
Cherie Makisa
Conseil Gratuit
Desespoir
Djalaa (Eds Mangelepa EPA 7-3)
Dracula (ASL 2250)
Kadjera 1 & 2 (ASL 2277 1981)
Kanemo 1 & 2 (ASL 2281 1981)
Kasuku Pt 1 & 2 (ASL 2222)
Kijana
Kimbele Mbele
Lisapo 1 & 2 (ASL 2270 1980)
Malawi Zikomo
Mangelepa Kanini [Sakina; Nganga-Kimetu; Ekubuku] EMI JJP 999
Mangelepa Ni Yako 1 & 2 (ASL 2353 1986) Mankwazi (Eds Mangelepa EPA 7-5)
Manyeto (ASL 233)6
Masanga Olele
Mbungu
Mimba - ASL 2251
Mtukufu rais Moi - ASL 2241
Naleli Papi
Ole Ole (ASL 2257N /AS4697)
Suki Pembe 1 & 2 (ASL 2334 1984)
Trouble (Eds Mangelepa EPA 7-1)
Tshibola (Eds Mangelepa EPA 7-4)
Wasai

Orchestra Monama

45:

Mariamu (Jean Monimambo) Editions Chris CJ019
Nabokola Mwana nkoi (Jean Monimambo) Editions Chris CJ020


Orchestra Mos Mos

Band led by Moises Fonta who is now in London. With Nana Akuma as the female singer and Lovy Longomba & Monimambo also on vocals, Siama and Chery on guitars and Lava Machine on drums. I hear the following names in shout-outs: Shabani (drummer), Manitcho (bass), Delvida, Jackino & Bokilo (singers), "Elvis" aka Lawison Somana on sax.

45:

Walter Jaramogi Part 1 & 2 (Editions Sapato EDI 2)
Mokili [Longomba Lovo] (Editions Sapato, Kenya EDI-5)
Vumilia Wazazi [Longomba Lovi] (Bolingo DD 11)
Mama ya Mwana (Editions Sapato, Kenya EDI-6)
This last single was a test pressing (& could be attributed to Shika Shika as it is unlabelled). Siama recalls, "Mama ya muana: Yes Lovy was praising Mado Zaina and also Safi Mati, who was Jimy Monimambo's wife. They were all best friend living in the same place but different apartments at that time. It could be CBS because some recordings of CBS never came out; I remember doing 4 songs for Monimambo with CBS. I can hear the voice of Monimambo, Fataki too, Nsilu waba Nsilu bass, Shabani drums, I don't know what Elvis -- Lawi Somana -- was playing, could be sax or guitar, he was a good guitarist too."

Les Noirs



On compilation LPs:
"Mungu iko Helena" by Kuka & Les Noirs on ANCIENT SUCCES VOL 1 (ASLP 426)
"Sikiya sauce" by Chuza et les Noirs on ANCIENT SUCCES VOL 1 (ASLP 426)
"Mosasa Ndembo" by Ndala Mobangui Roger on HIT PARADE AFRICAIN vol 3 Pathé Marconi 2C 054-15240
"Sikiya sauce" by Chuza et les Noirs & "Amin no 1" on HIT PARADE AFRICAIN vol 4 Pathé Marconi 2C 054-15733

LP: The African Stars Collection vol 3 (JJLP003):
A: Tshiku
Londele
B: Mokili
Nasambwa

BEST OF CHUZA'S ORCHESTRE LES NOIRS CITY FIVE (ASLP 904 (p)1976)
(Thanks to Alan Wheeler)
A: Sikia Sauce no 2
Amin No 1
Mosasa Ndembo
Mungu Iko Helena
B: Banange jangu tugende mengo
Nakotuta yo mabe
Banga ye
Hata Ukifanya nini

Mr Chuza Kabaselleh Masters, founder leader, and owner of Orchestre Les Noirs City Five, was born in Kasai, Zaire and brought up in Uganda and Kenya.
Chuza has had a long spell in the colonial army during the last world war, posted on service to various countries abroad. It was during this period in India that he started an Army Entertainment Band Unit with George Zaake, Daniel Gatuku, Charles Renkatuka, Fundi and many others.
After the war Chuza led an ex-Servicemen's band performing so popularly all over East Africa: the very popular A.B.S. Band. So popular was this group that even the Colonial Government allowed them to entertain the Mau Mau internees all over the country.
The colonial government ensured the break-up of this group towards the end of the emergency but Chuza very much determined and popular throughout East Africa continued forming band after band. His popularity earned him success in 1970 when the Uganda government trusted him with his band to perform at the various Hotels in Uganda.
In 1972 his recording career started in Kenya. For his success he thanks all his musicians and fans, and hopes this LP will be a must in every household.

LES NOIRS (Pathé Marconi C054-81818)
A: Instrumental
Boni Okimi ngai [Makwanzi Duki]
Mama titi [Weteto]
Osilisi ngai bisengo ya mokili [N'talu Nkatu]
B: Leotine 1 & 2 [N'dala Mobangi]
Kumbe Bolingo [Amani]
Ntumba Monique nalinga

Possibly later than the following album, and apparently with different personnel.


Note: Les Noirs had the following personnel on their self titled Pathé-Marconi LP:
Vocals: N'Dala Mobangi
Saxophone: N'Talu Nkatu
Drums, Tumba: Mukaputu Kalembi
Band manager, drums: Teka Seke Chuza Kabaselle Mbawo Mutella
Guitar/Vocal: Makwanzi Duki
Singer: Hassan Omari
Vocalist: Kuka Mwana Bitala
Saxophone: Ndongo Amani
Band Leader: Kalonzi Braink

While it is classic Congolese rhumba, sung in Lingala, the album opens in English with a salute to Kenyan fans and a "Viva Mobutu" and "Viva Kenyatta." This would make them one of the first Congolese bands to hit Kenya, probably in the mid-70s.

LES NOIRS (Pathé Marconi France 2C 062-15759 1973)
This must be where Prince got his sense of style?
liner notes: (Thanks to Alan Wheeler, translation by AJ):
Created in Kinshasa in 1966, an Orchestre bearing the name Les Noirs was made from musicians of the Republic of Zaire. During its existence the Orchestre Les Noirs has made a long voyage in East Africa -- more precisely in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. From this trip the band has had unparalleled success. The band comprises the following members:
Founder and band leader: Amba-Zozo (singer)
Singers: Vununu-Bovino, Bokenenge-Ngomo, Gho-Monzele
[Guitar] Soloists: Elema, Mokolo
Accompaniment: Kemimi
Saxophones: Beya-Maduma, Mozande
Trumpets: Barato, Ebule
Tumba: Weteto Koy (assistant band leader)
Side 1:
1. Bafolo pt 1 (Amba Zozo)
2. Mai ya tongo (Bokenenge-Ngomo)
3. S.G.A. (Kemini)
4. Longoli pt 1 (Amba Zozo)
Side 2:
1. Masamuna (Amba Zozo)
2. Diedo Miya (Beya Maduma)
3. Mokulu Mbembe pt 1 (Amba Zozo)
4. Mokulu Mbembe pt 2 (Amba Zozo)
5. Masunda (Amba Zozo)
CD:
Best of Orchestre Les NOIRS
(Tamasha CDTAM900)
*See my review on the Congo part 3 page for something of an explanation of the total hash Tamasha made with this album. As you can guess from the crudely rescaled cover it was taken from a cassette. Lots of bass rumble on here. The track names are all wrong. Here's my corrected track list:

1. Sikiya Sauce pt 1
2. Sikiya Sauce pt 2
3. Mosa se Ndembo
4. Mungu iko Helena
5. Mabuidi
6. Marie Jeanne
7. Banange tugede mengo (?)
8. Bangaye
9. Shida


45s:
Bata / Motema Pasi ASL 1085 (1973)
Bokambro 1 & 2 (EMI/Pathé 2C 006-15.225M)
Dada Amin (Weteto) b/w Monoko (Chuza) BMP206 Kampala
Emilie b/w Marie Jeanne (EMI/Pathé 2C 006-81.559M)
Fofita (ASL 2253)
Masamu-na
Masikini b/w Moselebende (Tomeka TK7-5013
Masiya batela ngai b/w Ata Basali Nyoso pamba (EMI/Pathé 2C 006-15.222M)
Mayaka (ASL2246 March 1979)
Mbanda Kazaka b/w Amie no 1 (EMI/Pathé 2C 006-81.562M)
Sikiya Sauce Pt 1 & 2 (Dieudos) - Philips (Ghana) ASL 7-1080; AS1869 (P1972); (EMI/Pathé 2C 006-15.234M)
Toma 1 & 2 (EMI/Pathé 2C 006-15.221M)
Tshiku 1 & 2 (ASL 2240N/AS 4600)
Mungu Iko Helena (Kuka Mwana Bitala) b/w Lwaki Oyomba Awatali Nsonga (Makwanzi Duki "Dieudos") Editions Malaika 1974 (ASL 1145)
Munga Mac Odonde Pt 1& 2 - ASL 2096 (1975)
Mokili 1 & 2 (Moreno) ASL 7 - 2184
Florence Wa Mungu b/w Nakubondela - BMP 202
Dieudos Namoni Pasi b/w Maina Ndoki - BMP 203
Louise Bolingo b/w Mama Na Titi - BMP 205
Tata Na Mapasa b/w Suna - BMP 214
Otura Pierre b/w Mive Temoin - BMP 215
Au Revoir 1 & 2 (ASL 2278 1981)

Zozo & Les Noirs: Lolanga Ngunda b/w Ngai Wivinne - ATA 1
Michel & Les Noirs: Oboya Ngai Tina b/w Brazza Impfondo (Ata Ndele ATA 2)
(Thanks to Alan Wheeler for images in this section)

Pepelepe


Featuring the lovely voice of Nana Akumu wa Kudu (also of Bana Ekanga). In "Mobali ya tembe" there are shout-outs to Bijoux, "Shaba Kahamba" (nickname for the bassist), Samy, Edifundu, Kasule Mopepe, Mwalimu (i.e. Siama Matuzungidi) & others.

45s:
Mulambo
Baleki Nzela - ASL 3380
Kwa nini? (Nana & Orch Pepelepe) ASL 2255 November 1979
Mawazo - ASL 3383
Savana - Tobina TON23
Bilanda-Landa Mabe - Safari SAF9
Ouma mobali ya tembe (Bijoux) APR-01

Orchestra Pole Pole

45:
Pezu [Moni Mambo] (Umoja Mwana Shambe UMS1)
(due to the similar design of the label, I suspect the Umoja label is an offshoot of Editions Mwana Mama)

Orchestre Popolipo

Founded by Tabu Frantal & Lessa Lassan (ex-African Fiesta), from Congo, based in Nairobi, still active

45s:

Massamba
Margaret Maggie 1 & 2
Mwana wa mberi

Shika Shika


Jimmy Monimambo singing at Halliance Club, Nairobi, courtesy Siama Matuzungidi

LPs:

HIT PARADE LP 004
Meka Meka [Ekombo]
Kabola Mikola [Jimmy Moni Mambo]
Kende Nayo [Ekombo]
Mwana Koi [Jimmy Moni Mambo]
Massa [Shika Shika]

Fumitoto Monimambo & l'Orch. Shika Shika
MALONGA
LP (SER 120; AIT release, 1984):
A 1. Malonga - 9:14
2. Kahindi - 9:06
B 1. Maze - 9:03 (also released as 45RPM)
2. Mopaya Zomba - 7:56
(All tracks composed by Mfumu Ntoto Monimambo)

Sisili (Melodica cassette MLD 220)
Sisili [Siama] 9:09 (also released as a 45)
Ivete - 9:11 (also released as a 45)
Ma Lily [Moreno?] - 9:17 (also released as a 45)
Halima

45s:
Amba* [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Daraja DJ005
Balingi ngai nakufa [] Lake Victoria Special VC06
Balula 1 & 2 [Lovi Mokolo & Moni Mambo] Umoja Mwana Shambe UMS4/KBS411
Bella [Mandefu wa Mandefu] Safari SAF3 (JACA Production)
Bibi Moke [Mandefu wa Mandefu] ()
Cherie Lala [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Hit Parade HP014
Diabanza [Monimambo Jim] Bolingo Records DD03
Diana [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Hit Parade HP001 (1975)
Daina Akinyi (?)
Family [Jim Moni Mambo] Bolingo DD-15
Fifi [Siama] Hit Parade HP007 "Shika Yeye" (1975)
Fumata [Moni Mambo] Hudson HUDP102
Habari Yako [Moni Mambo] Umoja Mwana Shambe UMS02
Hadija Mama Samba 1 & 2 [] Audio Productions APL008
Inyo [Moni Mambo?] ()
Jane [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Hit Parade HP003
Kanindo [by Etchou Ndjadi Mitchoum; Oluoch Kanindo was the producer of Bolingo records] Bolingo DD02?; also Makossa MZ30573, B side of "Bakenda Bokila" by Kalombo and Orch. Bakoka
Lima [?]
Liwa [] Hit Parade HP021
Ma Ngenge [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Hit Parade HP008 (P) 1975 8:45
Ma-Sofia [Monimambo Jim] City Boom CB23
Maisha ya mjini [Moreno] Makossa MEA716 1980
Makopa [Monimambo Jim] CBS LINGA (S) 2
Mary [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Soni Sounds SONYA 02
Mary Kalando [Roy Mosanda] Eds Tobina TON19 (A Jaca Production)
Massa [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Hit Parade HP009
Matinda [Moni Mambo] Editions Musique Bénie EMB8111 (p) 1976
Maya
Mayatu [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Hit Parade HP019 (1975)
Maze [] AIT subsidiary Editions Franc-Afrique EFA026
Mboka Mosika [Lovy Longomba?] Eds Jaca ELJ 051
Milando [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Hit Parade HP020
Misere 1 & 2 [] LINGA (s)4
Monica Achoch [Lifenya Lorri] Hit Parade HP017
Motema Ekobeta [Moni Mambo] CBS Linga (S) 3
Nakobela [Mandefu] Edition Jaca JRP9
Ndaya - 4:54
Ngombele [Mandefu wa Mandefu] Edition Jaca JRP6
Nayako Ber [Moni Mambo Jim] Bolingo DD 01
Nzumba [Monimambo] Superphonics BOY03
Obongoli ngai [Mandefu wa Mandefu] Editions Jaca JRP10
Ole Mama [] Eds Mau-Mau Afrique CEGE 03
Olivia []
Patrick []
Rebecca [Siama] ()
Sala {} Musiciana MUSA 05 [by Special Liwanza & Shika Shika ??] 1977
Shika Shika [Jimmy Moni Mambo] Hit Parade HP005 "Shika Yeye"
Sisili [Siama] ()
Tabu ni tabu tu [] HP025
Tika na lela [Lovy] Hit Parade HP018
Tina [Marie] Hit Parade HP015
Zainabu [Moni Mambu Jim] Edition Jaca JRP22 (1983)
45 by Moni Mambo:
Getride [Moni Mambo] S-CBS (K) 004 (P) 1979

*SONGA! magazine volume 3 (a brilliant, loving, hilarious, detailed and rather insane fanzine put out by Phil Bunce in Billingshurst, West Sussex, UK, 1991) included SONGA! MBELE cassette "Kenyan Classics vol 2" including "Amba" by Shika Shika licensed from Daraja Recordings. Copies available from the Natari website.

Super Kumba Kumba

Possibly a nzonzing band with Mose Se Fan Fan at the helm; Tim Clifford lists one single by them on the Diploma label, sung in Lingala, and released in Nairobi:

Selestine Okanisaka 1 & 2 (Diploma DCC001)

Super Mazembe

Formed out of Super Vox, a Congolese band started by Mutonkole Didos Longwa in 1967, some of whom moved to Nairobi in 1974. VOICE OF AMERICA published an obituary of Atia Jo (born Mulunguke Mwanza) on 2 January 2007: "Super Mazembe was comprised of the band leader Didos Mutonkole Longwa, Bukalos Bukassa (lead guitarist), Rapok Kayembe (rythmist), Atia Jo (bass guitarist), Katele Aley (lead composer and vocalist), Dodo Doris (drums), Kassongo Songoley (rythmist) and Charles Kagamba (vocalist)." Formed in Lubumbashi, the band moved to Zambia where Nashil Pitchen, producer of the Nairobi Eagles Band heard them and invited them to Kenya. In Nairobi their ranks were strengthened by other Congolese musicians, including Kassongo Wa Kanema, Lovy Longomba, Fataki Lokassa, Rondo Kandolo, Charles Atei, Lobe Namapako, and Loboko Pasi. But the band went into decline in 1986 when a businessman took their instruments away. Atia joined Virunga and later Tchakatumba. In the early 90s surviving members regrouped, but Katele died soon after leaving only Atia and Kanema.

Trevor Herman, in his liner notes to the GIANTS OF EAST AFRICA CD singles out guitarist Bukasa wa Bukasa, who died in 1989, and also mentions bandmates Loboko Bua Mangala (guitar), Mwanza wa Mwanza Mulunguluke (bass), Kitenge Ngoi Wa Kitombole (drums) & Musa Olokwiso Mangala. A lot of the songs on this compilation are stories about individual band members. Their biggest hits were "Kasongo," "Shauri Yako," and "Samba."

Doug Paterson mentions that only their Kaivaska LP (for Virgin) was conceived as an album, all the other six LPs released in Kenya were after-the-fact compilations of 45s.

LPs:


Orch. Super Mazembe
Mazembe (Editions Mazembe EMALP 0520; 1980)

A1. Loboko (Loboko)
2. Mado Zaina (Lovy)
B1. Ouma (Lovy)
2 Na bimaka te (Katele)


10th Anniversary (EMALP 0530; 1981)

A1. Mbanda Ya Mobanga (Longwa)
2. Mukala Musi (Lobe)
B1. Gina (Lovy)
2. Atia-Jo (Atia-Jo)


Double Gold (UAMLPD1014 also EMALP 0540 1982)

Mbanda ya mobange
Kasongo
Ji-ji
Nanga [Lovy]
Side 2:
Bamama
Samba
Maloba d'amour
Mokano (Lovy)
Mwana-nyiau
Side 3:
Zita
Pepe
Side 4:
Belina
Shauri Yako


L'Orch. Super Mazembe (Mushosho)
Wabe-Aba (EMALP 0550; 1984)

1. Yo
2. Zulfa
3. Lukhasi
4. Rosy
5. Eyah
6. Sauda


Their Greatest Hits (EMKLP 01; also EMALP 0560; 1986)

A.1. Kasongo (Katele)
2. Shauri Yako (Nguashi Ntimbo)
3. Kayembe (K. Rapok)
B.1 Nabimakate (Katele)
2 Salima (Kandolo Rondo)
3. Atia-Jo (Atia-Jo)

Orchestra Super Mazembe
Kaivaska (Virgin UK V2263; 1982)

A.1. Mbanda Ya Mobange (Longwa)
2. Kasongo (Katele)
3. Jiji (Tabu Ley)
4. Nanga (Lovy)
B.1. Bamama (Kasongo wa Kanema)
2. Samba (Katele)
3. Maloba D' Amour (Buddy Holly/Kasongo wa Kanema)
4. Mokano (Lovy)
5. Mwana Nyau (Lobe)

Orch. Super Mazembe
MWANA MAZEMBE (EMI, ca 1977, no info; also KLP 0514; available for download on 7digital com)

A.1. Kassongo 1 & 2 (Katele) [also on Giants of East Africa]
2. Shida 1 & 2 (Katele)
3. Samba 1 & 2 (Katele) [also on Giants of East Africa]
4. Mwana Mazembe 1 & 2 (Katele) [also on Mazembe @45]

MALOBA D' AMOR (AFRILP 007 1990)
UK compilation released on the DiscAfrique label
A.1. Kasongo (Katele)
2 Nabimakate (Katele)
3. Shauri Yako (Nguashi Ntimbo)
4. Maloba D' Amor (Buddy Holly/Kasongo wa Kanema)
B.1. Salima Pt 1 & 2 (Kandolo Rondo)
2. Samba Pt 1 & 2 (Katele)
3. Mwana Nyau Pt 1 & 2 (Lobe)

Very Best of Super Mazembe (ZEMAC6)
Mwana Nyiau
Okava
Sauda
Auma
South View
Atia-Jo

Hits of Mazembe vol. 4 (ZEMAC4)


Super Mazembe 45s:

Abibah Makambo 1 & 2, by the Great Super Mazembe Band (ALP 023)
Alesia 1 & 2 (Eds Mazembe EMA 11)
Amina 1 & 2 (Eds Mazembe EMA 10)
Biwela (Christmas) Pt 1 & 2 - EMA 29
Bwana nipe pesa b/w Zamani Sana (Super Matatu MTU1)
Ilena Pt 1 & 2 - EMA 33
Kasongo 1 & 2 (Eds Mazembe EMA 7-6) 1977
Kayembe Pt 1 & 2 - EMA 24
Lokeke 1 & 2 (Eds Mazembe EMA 34)
Mokano 1 & 2 [Lovy] (Eds Mazembe EMA 32)
Mwana Mazembe 1 & 2 (Eds Mazembe EMA 13)
Mwana Nyiau (Eds Mazembe EMA 36)
Na Bimaka (Editions Mazembe EM7-16)
Nakokite b/w Libala Pasi (ASL 3322)
Naleki na ba zone 1 & 2 (Eds Mazembe EMA 9)
Ndeko [Lovy] Editions Mazembe EMA 30
Okova (Oyieyo Ringo OYS 949)
Pepepe [Dack Star] Editions Mazembe EMA 38
Rosy Pt 1 & 2 [Lovy] EMA 42
Salima [Kandolo] Editions Mazembe EMA 35
Samba 1 & 2 (Eds Mazembe EMA 7-8) 1977
Wabuza b/w Nazangi mwana (Luapula PKZ 8)
Yo-Mabe [Lovy] (Editions Mazembe EMA 28)

See Tim Clifford's discography for a more complete list of Eds Mazembe singles.

Nashil Pichen & Super Mazembe: Merci Imbwembwe Yandi b/w Revien a moi (PKZ 17) Made in Zambia
N.P. Kazembe and his Super Mazembe Band "Naleli libota" (Luapula PKZ 75)
Dr. N.P. Kazembe And His Super Mazembe Band "Nde Lwala Love" (Luapula PKZ 79)
Rossy Marrie (Best of Editions CHRIS vol 3 Cassette)
Shida
(See Julian Thorpe's page for more Super Mazembe singles)


Cassette:

Super Mazembe / Kasongo / Ouma (A.I.T. Mazembe vol 1)

Side A: Kasongo
Nanga
Ouma
Rosy
Side B: Pepeye
Preketo
Ilena
Shauri Yako


REISSUE CDs:

GIANTS OF EAST AFRICA CD (Sterns/Earthworks CD45)

Kassongo [Katele Aley]
Samba [Katele Aley]
Jiji [Tabu Ley]
Gina [Lovy Longomba]
Mukala Musi [Lobe Mapakjo Roddy]
Mbanda ya Mobange [Mutonkole Longwa Didos]
Shauri Yako [Nguashi Ntimbo]
Lukasi [Lovy Longomba]
Loboko [Loboko Bua Mangala]
Bamama [Kassonga wa Kanema / Majo]
Longwa [Mutonkole Longwa Didos]


MAZEMBE @ 45RPM VOL 1 (Sterns STCD3063 2013)

1. Kingo Mwambe [Katele] orig: EMA19
2. Izabela [Katele] orig: EMA17
3. Amina [Pauni] orig: EMA10
4. Mwana Mazembe [Katele] orig: EMA13
5. Na Bimaka Te [Katele] orig: EMA16
6. South View [Katele] orig: EMA20
7. Okova [Katele] orig: EMA22
8. Naleli Libota [Katele] orig: EMA21
9. Naleki Na Ba Zone [Tshishi] orig: EMA09


MAZEMBE @ 45RPM VOL 2 (Sterns 2013; download only)

1. Ndona [] orig: EMA18
2. Yo-mabe [Lovy Longomba] orig: EMA28
3. Presto [] orig: EMA39
4. Nganyiemu [] orig: EMA37
5. Mwana nyiau [] orig: EMA36
6. Aleisia [] orig: EMA11
7. Prekete [] orig: EMA40
8. Sala Keba [] orig: EMA15
9. Mungu Mkubwa [] orig: unknown


[label courtesy of Afro7.net]

Orchestre Teke Teke


Expat band led by Milanda Barami, vocalist, who sang with OK Jazz in 1985-7.
45s:
Nabimaki Na Massa Pts 1 & 2 (Eds BONGA BON 9) 1977
Libala Bombanda Pasi (Milanda Barami) Pts 1 & 2 (Eds BONGA BON 10) 1977
Muziki Ya Bana Kin Pts 1 & 2 (Eds BONGA BON 11) 1977
Kaka Se Bolingo/Likambo Ya Bokamusi (Eds BONGA BON 13) 1977?


Samba Mapangala and Virunga


Formed in Nairobi in 1981. Songs from their golden age can be heard on VIRUNGA ROOTS VOLUME 1, including "Africa Dance," "Ntumba," "L'Argent" and "Losako." (VS001 CD)
45:
Virunga 1 & 2 (ASL 2258N / AS 4713)
Mayopa 1 & 2 (Best of Editions CHRIS cassette)
Cido 1 & 2 (ASL 2284 (P)1981

See also Les Kinois


courtesy: Matsuli
LPs/CDs:
IT'S DISCO TIME WITH SAMBA MAPANGALA & ORCH VIRUNGA (ASLP 927)

A1. Malako
2. Mwana Mboka
3. Christmas
B1. Sunday
2. Mpenzi Rudi
3. Safari

1990 English compilation, released as VIRUNGA VOLCANO (Earthworks, also on CD CDEWV16), produced by Trevor Herman. The breakthrough album that launched Virunga to international stardom.

tracks:
Malako [Samba Mapangala] also on SLCD149
Ahmed Sabit [Samba Mapangala]
Virunga [Samba Mapangala]
Yembele [Samba Mapangala] also on SLCD149
Neliya [Bansilu wa Bansilu Maniju; aka Wabansilu Manysho]
Mansita [Sammy Mansita]


FEET ON FIRE (Sterns 1036 1991)
Sungura (also on SLCD149)
Vidonge (also on SLCD149)
Toweli nini
Unisamehe
Jaffar
M'Safari
Safari
All songs composed by Samba. Produced by Charlie Hart
Personnel:
Samba Mapangala - vocals
Rissa-Rissa - Conga & backing vocal
Mokili Sesti - Lead guitar
Bavon Masudi - rhythm guitar
Juma Kachenchy - bass
Abdallah Kodi - drums
Rama Athumani - horn arrangements

CDs:
KARIBU KENYA (Sun Records 912956 1995)
Tonga Zala
Karibu Kenya
To Coopere
Ikolo kolo
Wajuku
Weso Sina
Aicha
Africa Yetu
Personnel:
Samba Mapangala - vocals
Abby Surya / Wuta Mayi / Bibi Den's - backing vocals
Mavoungou - percussion
Syran Mbenza - lead guitar and production
Caien Madoka - lead, rhythm, bass guitar
Diblo Dibala -lead guitar
Miguel Yamba - bass
Komba Bellow - drums
Pablo Lubadika - bass on "Ikolo kolo"
Thierry Galion - keyboards, programmation
Alain Hato - sax
Philippe Slominsky - trumpet
Jacques Bolognesi - trombone
Boncana Maiga - horn arrangement
All songs composed by Samba.

UJUMBE (Sterns/Earthworks STEW43CD 2001)
Siri (also on SLCD149)
Dunia Tuna Pita (also on SLCD149)
Muniache (also on SLCD149)
Umoka ni nguvu
Vijana
Ko seka te
Mbona mimi?
Ufunguwo
Dunia tuna pita (extended mix)
Personnel:
Samba Mapangala - vocals
Nyboma Mwan'dido - backing vocals
Mavoungou - percussion
Caien Madoka - lead guitar
Bopol Mansiamina- rhythm guitar
Boss Matuta - bass
Komba Bellow Mafwala - drums
Yuma Kasongo - sax
All songs composed by Samba. Produced by Samba and Bopol.

VIRUNGA ROOTS VOL 1 (VS001 1988-9 recordings)
Africa Dance*
Vunja Mipfupa
Ntumba*
Tolinga Virunga
L'Argent*
Belle femme
Losako*
Marina
Personnel:
{*Nairobi 1988} Vocals: Samba Mapangala, Fataki Lokassa, Dago Mayombe, Coco Zigo, Kasongo wa Kanema, Moreno Batamba, Ibrahim Pepe, Kwempa Risa Risa
Guitars: Beya Mikobi Dibuba, Nkulu Mwilambwe alias Django, Bavon Masudi, Siama Matuzungidi, Jhonny wa Lengo, Sammy Drums: Lava Machine, Willy Chomba, Caillou, Abdalla Kodi, Jean-Claude Mulamba
Sax: Ntalu Nkatu Talos, Twahir Mohammed, Rama Matungunja
all other songs recorded in Paris, 1989, with Samba, Passi Jo, Wuta Mayi, vocals
Syran - lead guitar
Bopol - rhythm
Miguel Yamba - bass
Komba Bellow, Ti Paul, Rudolph - Drums
All songs composed by Samba, except "Ntumba" composed and sung by Django.


SONG & DANCE (VR002)
Adija
Kaa Chonjo
Tafuta kazi
Kwa nin
Nyama Choma
Pangeni uzazi
Siku ya mwisho
Personnel:
Vocals: Samba Mapangala, Dodo Munoko, Nyboma, Komba Bellow
Guitars: Caien Madoka, with Syran on 3, Dally Kimoko on 5 & 6
Bopol - rhythm
Fiston - bass
Komba Bellow - drums
Deba Sungu - conga
Jimmy Mvondo - sax
All songs composed by Samba.


AFRICAN CLASSICS (Sheer SLCD149 2008)
Sungura (also on Sterns 1036)
Malako (also on CDEVW16)
Fonseka (first time on CD)
Muniache (also on STEW43CD)
Yembele (also on CDEVW16)
Sister Ali (first time on CD)
Siri (also on STEW43CD)
Mabiala (first time on CD)
Vidonge (also on Sterns 1036LP)
Dunia tuna pita (also on STEW43CD)
"Sister Ali" written by Mandala Muisa, all others composed by Samba.

MABIALA (Tamasha Budget Beater CD)
Mabiala
Betty
Kimotho
Rama
*1983 recordings; only the title cut had appeared on CD previously


Moreno & Moja One

Moreno and l'Orch First Moja-One (AIT Records EFALP020) Sister Pili
A1. Adidja
2. Kaka Punguza wivu
B1. Aoko (Danger girl)
2. Sister Pili

Personnel:
Guitar-solo: Mokili
Rhythm: Siama & Bibiley
Bass: Lomboto (Toms)
Saxaphone: Kayumba (Frankai)
Drums: Lava & Kaster & Hasani
Vocals: Coco-Zigo & Dewolo
Solo vocals: Moreno
Music arranger: Moreno
Produced by: Felix Jacomo (G.A.)
Recording engineer: Steve Ndesandjo
Recorded at: CBS Studios (Nairobi/Kenya)
[Note: There is some irony in adding the epithet "First" to the band name as "Moja" also means "One"!]

N.B. Reissued in 2012 by Stern's as Sister Pili + 2, right.

Reissue of Sister Pili plus 2 from Sterns 2012. The two additional tracks, 'Rehema-Piri' (POPE16) & 'Teresia' (POPE17), were singles recorded a couple of years before "Sister Pili" with a group called Bana Nzadi.


Moreno & Blue Stars LP (CBS /ACP 1201) BS1 1990


A1. Kalume [Margaret Safari]
A2. Losele [Moreno Batamba]
B1. African Woman [Margaret Safari]
B2. Sikutaki Tena [Margaret Safari]
B3. Shufa [Moreno Batamba] also released as a single

Note: A pretty awful album, with two bright women, Margaret & Sheila, singing harmony that doesn't fit with Moreno's growl, a terrible synthesizer and some weird musical ideas, especially on "Losele" and "African Woman." Good "Diblo-esque" soukous-style guitar, but not enough to recommended it.


Moreno cassette "Nipe Mapenzi" (MB 002)


1. Kadogo - 9:19
2. Mapenzi Ni Mazoea - 9:16
3. Mani Buda - 9:20
4. Omande - 8:55
5. Pili Mtalii - 9:29
6. Nipe Mapenzi - 4:48 (Oddly, this hit song in English starts out as Afrobeat)
7. Losele - 7:19


Moreno cassette "Greatest Hits" (MOR/C 001)


1. Dunia Ni Duara - 8:13 (original version, with horns) 1981
2. Bibi Harusi - 8:13
3. Mwana Dada - 8:45
4. Urembo Si Hoja - 8:31
5. Mali Kwa Mali - 7:50 (also released as a 45 rpm single)
6. Pili Mswahili - 13:31 (also released as a 45 rpm single) 1981


Moreno cassette "Vidonge Sitaki" (MOR/C 002)


Vidonge Sitaki - 7:08 (remake of a Taraab hit; also released as a 45 rpm single) 1993
Mapenzi Ya Shida Pt 1 & 2 - 14:08 (also released as a 45 rpm single)
Bimasha - 9:05
Wanitoa Mapenzi - 8:13 (also released as a 45 rpm single)
Angela - 7:44 (also released as a 45 rpm single)
Baseka - 8:29 (also released as a 45 rpm single)
Adiama - 6:12


Moreno cassette "Everlasting Memories" (MOR/C 003)

SIDE A:
1. Vituko Majengo - 4:30
2. Pili Mswahili
3. Urembo si hoja (An almost reggae feel to the guitar on this)
4. Mali kwa mali (also released as a 45 rpm single)
5. Wake za watu*
6. Angela (also released as a 45 rpm single)
7. Dunia ni duara (also released as a 45 rpm single)
SIDE B:
1. Mapenzi ya Mshumaa
2. Bibi Harusi
3. Kazi Ni Kazi - 4:00
4. Mapenzi Ya Mshumaa - 6:07
5. Sina Wivu - 4:05 (Interesting to note the influence of Mbaqanga on this track; also released as a 45 rpm single)
6. Pili Mswahili pt 2 (also released as a 45 rpm single)

*Also on LP "It's My Discothek Vol 2" [POLP 547] as "Mabibi Za Watu" - 9:56 (also released as a 45 rpm single)


(Label courtesy of Kentanzavinyl)
Moja One 45s:
(Info from Kentanzavinyl.com, Peter Toll, Tim Clifford and Muttu Mondiya Mama via Julian Thorpe's page)
Aminata (AIT - Andrew Crawford Productions, also title of LP)
Aterere
Bibi Arusi 1 & 2 (Doromy DM88)
Bokila 1 & 2 (AIT/MOJA 5)
Dunia ni Duara 1 & 2 (Sound of Music Sound010; also AIT/MOJA 1) The original version
Dunia Si Yako si yangu [Moreno] CBS ACP702
Elizabetta
Jua Lako 1 & 2 (Eds Jaca JPR 33)*
Manimba 1 & 2 (Moreno) Sound of Music Sound009; also AIT MOJA 2
Mapenzi Iko Wapi 1 & 2 (Moreno) MMM Panther Sounds PANTHER 004
Mapenzi ya barua 1 & 2 (Disco Sounds DISCO 001)
Mapenzi Ya Kisasa
Matanga 1 & 2 (AIT/MOJA 6)
Ngalula
Nyaho Marach 1 & 2 (Eds Mwana Mama MM31)
Riziki
Shufaa (AIT - Andrew Crawford Productions)
Sister Pili 1 & 2 (Editions FrancAfrique EFA14)
Sister She
Sikutaki Tena (AIT - Andrew Crawford Productions)
Sitaki Mambo b/w Pili Mungwana (AIT/MOJA 4)
Tusijuane
Utani choka (AUG16) 1982
Waanyika Nyika 2
Wakati Umefika 1 & 2 (AIT/MOJA 3)
Wakeza Watu 1 & 2 (ASL 3411)

* "Jua lako" on KWEYA compilation (POLP551)

Moreno & Blue Stars 45s:

Mapenzi ni mazoea 1 & 2 by Moreno Blue Stars CBS-ACP703
Shufa 1 & 2 by Blue Stars CBS/ACP1201

Orch. Viva Makale (Alimasi)



Tomy Lomboto, bassist [left], & Siama Matuzungidi, guitar, outside Garden Square, Nairobi, 1979, courtesy of Siama Matuzungidi



LP:
A1: Akamba 1 & 2 (George Kalombo)
A2: Bibi Mdogo 1 & 2 (Coco Zigo)
B1: Mwana Manyema 1 & 2 (George Kalombo Mwanza)
B2: Bikumba kumba 1 & 2 (Kabeya Ilombo)

45s:
(Info from Paul Johnston, Tim Clifford, Peter Toll and Juan Carlos)
Akamba [Kalombo Mwanza] ASL 2256 / AS 4692
Kampete [] ASL 2317 / AS4968-69
Tshanti [Coco Zigo]
Bikumba-kumba
Mwana Manyema [George Kalombo Mwanza]
Mama Naa
Masaku
Mbongo ni pesa 1 & 2 (Swahili) ASL2239
Safari
O Pallo
Celebration

Kalombo Mwanza George & Orch. Viva Makale:

Sugar Mummy 1 & 2 () Hit Parade HP013
Mama Nala
Prince Koko Zigo Mike & Orch. Viva Makale:

Bibi Mdogo
Kulo Koko
Mopepe ya Mbula
(Info from Muttu Mondiya Mama on Julian Thorpe's page)

Viva Stars

A later version of Viva Makale. Perhaps also connected to Les Jaca.

45s:

Prince Coco Zigo Mike & L'orchestre Viva Stars "Horoscope" (Lingala) (editions Jaca Production JRP 35)
Thomy Lomboto & L'Orchestre Viva Stars "Mama Mapacha" (Lingala) (editions Jaca Production JRP 39)

Vundumuna


Vundumuna was formed by guitarist Tabu Frantal in 1984. He had started in Kisingani with Orch. Succès le Peuple, then came East with Boma Liwanza and joined Shika Shika then Virunga, before starting Vundumuna with his partner Wabansilu Manysho, the bassist. Ugandan Sammy Kasule (from Special Liwanza) and Lava Machine were also members. They also teamed up with Lessa Lassan, who had sung with African Fiesta, at one point.

LPs [from Peter Toll]:

Vundumuna: Let's Go Dance (1985)

Vundumuna: Happenin' POLP 556 1986
A.1. Petite Nzele (Botango)
A.2. Gudi Gudi (Manytcho)
A.3. Benda Bika (Frantal)
B.1. Survival (Frantal)
B.2. Money Pesa "Argent" (Frantal)
B.3. Wivu Sina (Kelly Kanku)

Frantal: The return Of Lessa Lassan AMG 005
A.1. Sala Molende
A.2. Inaka Losele
B.1. Nakoka
B.2. Nzawe
(All songs composed by Frantal)

Vundumuna: The Original Vundumuna CBS(N) 025
A.1. Mariamu (Tabu Ngongo)
A.2. Usinitese (Frantal)
A.3. Unshe (Vundumuna)
B.1. Mwinji (Botango/Kelly Kanku)
B.2. Mwami (Kelly Kanku)
B.3. Kagutema (Vundumuna)

Frantal Tabu & The Vundumuna - ELE IVALP 043
A.1. Oluka Makambo
A.2. Tuta - Tuta
B.1. Bibi
B.2. Ele
(All songs composed by Frantal)

Vundumuna Band (Andrew Crawford INTA 18) 1991
Recorded in Japan, released in Kenya in 1991 [Doug Paterson]

45:
Ndoto [] Bolingo
Vundumuna 1 & 2 [] CBS (K) 7008

CD: HOT MISTAKE (MERCURY/PPD-1051 1989)
Tracks: "Sesse"
"Kagutema"
"Nzawe"
"Iyoliyo"
"Tongo Etana"
"Mee Kakpa".

Prod.: Vundumuna & H. Nagasawa; Vundumuna personnel:
B. B. Mo-Frank (keyboards, vocal, percussion)
Tabu Frantal (guitar, vocals, percussion)
Tabu Ngongo (alto sax, vocals, percussion)
Kelly Kanku (trumpet, flute, vocal, percussion)
Wabansilu David Manytsho (bass, vocal, percussion)
Kabakaba (guitar, vocal, percussion)
Kapela (drums, vocal, percussion)
Micky Jagajaga (drums)

Last update 2 May 2013

All writing on this site is copyright 2005-2013 by Alastair Johnston. Please seek permission before lifting text and/or images.
You can reach me at contact[at-sign]muzikifan[dot]com

Creative Commons License
muzikifan by alastair m. johnston is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License.
Based on a work at www.muzikifan.com.

More info on Kenyan 45s can be found on Tim Clifford's database.

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