Papa Wemba, born Jules Shungu Wembadio, is one of the most well known Congolese musicians from the past forty years.

From his start with the group Zaïko Langa Langa in 1969 until today, Papa Wemba has yet to exit center stage. His career initially started with Isifi then moving on to Yoka Lokole, culminating with the creation of his own group in 1977: Viva Musica.

Papa Wemba’s name appears alongside among the names of many of the stars of African music: Youssou Ndour, Manu Dibango, Salif Keita and others.

During the past few years, Papa Wemba has remained inventive and active, easily retaining his place as the head of the Congolese music pantheon.