Leading Congolese music promoter Tamukati Ndongala is dead. His death in Kinshasa immediately plunged the music fraternity in the Democratic Republic of Congo into mourning, with reflections on Tamukati’s immense contribution to popularising Lingala music concerts in East, Central, southern and West Africa.
According to his widow Chantal Tezzo, who broke the news on Saturday, Tamukati died after a short illness.
Fans from across Europe and the US sent condolence messages.
In East Africa, particularly in Uganda and Kenya Tamukati will be best remembered for having pioneered what would later become showcase concerts by top Congolese musicians and bands.
He arranged visits by leading Congolese music stars such as Tshala Muana, Zaiko Langa Langa-Familia Dei, crooner Bozi Boziana, Kanda Bongoman and Koffi Olomide.
One of Tamukati’s most historic concerts was a debut show by Kanda Bongoman, who toured Kenya in April 1991.
A purported challenge to compete against popular Kikuyu musician Joseph Kamaru drew one of the largest crowds ever to the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
It was then that retired President Daniel arap Moi asked, tongue-in-cheek, “Kanda Bongoman ni nani (Who is Kanda Bongo man)?”
He was obviously curious at the immense interest in the big show.
Tamukati had taken a low profile since The Ndongalas returned to Kinshasa from their musical sojourn in America mid last year.
