- Born
- Died
- Birth nameJules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba
- Papa Wemba was born on June 14, 1949 in Kasai, Belgian Congo [now Democratic Republic of the Congo]. He was an actor and composer, known for Children of Men (2006), Life Is Rosy (1987) and Bullfighter (2000). He was married to Marie-Rose Luzolo. He died on April 24, 2016 in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire.
- SpouseMarie-Rose Luzolo(1970 - 2016) (his death, 6 children)
- His father wanted him to be a journalist or lawyer. After developing his trademark high-range voice in religious choirs, he made his debut in the Congolese capital Kinshasa at the end of the 1960s.
- He was a Congolese musician whose blend of African, Cuban and Western influences became one of Africa's most popular music styles. He helped modernize Congolese rumba music, contributing to a new genre, soukous, which has influenced music across Africa. With his bands Zaiko Langa Langa, Isifi and Viva La Musica, he had several hits, including "L'Esclave" and "Le Voyageur".
- He was also a fashion and style icon.
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