Viva La Musica in Opole

Viva La Musica is a Congolese rumba and soukous band formed in Kinshasa in 1977 by singer Papa Wemba. The group became closely identified with his voice, dance music and interest in fashion, and its early repertoire included “Mère Supérieure” and “Mabele Mokonzi.” Viva La Musica began performing in Kinshasa as Papa Wemba’s principal band. He later established the Paris-based Viva La Musica International and took the group on tours beyond Central Africa. Papa Wemba also brought the band to WOMAD stages during his international touring years.