Congolese musician Kanda Bongo Man was last weekend celebrated at the MTM Music Awards.
Bongo Man, who lives in London, was recognised for his distinguished contribution as a cultural music ambassador of the Congolese musicians in England.
During the colourful ceremony in Bristol City, southwest England, Bongo Man received the Lifetime Achievement MTM Award from the DR Congo Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Ndolamb Ngokwey.
In an interview with the Saturday Nation earlier this week, Bongo Man expressed his delight for being honoured.
“It is encouraging to be feted, especially now that I am based in England, where I do most of my shows and music productions,” he said.
This was the third edition of the MTM Awards, which was inaugurated in 2022. The event recognises the efforts of artistes from diverse cultures living in England.
Bongo Man is among the top proponents of the Soukous dance beat and Kwasa Kwasa dancing style. He is best known for hits like Inde Monie , Sai and Muchana .
Bongo Man’s reworking of an old favourite, Sweet Elizabeth , was a great effort. The song was a cover version of the classic My Lovely Elizabeth , which was composed by Sierra Leonean musician S. Rogie (Sooliman Ernest Rogers). The musician, who died in South London in 1994, was a renowned palm wine guitarist and singer.
After leaving Zaire – now the Democratic Republic of Congo – in search of greener pastures, Bongoman briefly lived in Kampala, Uganda, in 1979.
Before settling in England, he spent some time in South Africa and France. He also toured Australia, the United States and several other countries.
While in Paris, he recorded several songs, including Liza and Sai . He was backed by solo guitarist Diblo Dibala. Later, he recorded Inde Monie (with Dally Kimoko) and Isambe (with Nene Tshakou).
In Kenya, one of his most memorable shows was in 1991 when he performed at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi. It was one of the most well-attended shows ever held at the venue.
Meanwhile, the KCB Sports Club in Ruaraka, Nairobi, will host an after party show on Saturday evening. The show will succeed a Kenya Cup match between KCB and Strathmore Leos.
Revellers will be entertained at the Lion’s Den, KCB Sports Club by the Urban Styles DJ Crew, featuring DJ Flint and Veejay Locco. There will be plenty of food and drinks.
