- country:Congo (Democratic Republic of the)
- region:Congo
- style(s):Rumba
- label:Toleka
- type:Band
- instrumentation:vocal, percussion, unplugged, guitar
- artist contact:Toleka Artists
Line up
- Bumba Massa ( Vocalist )
- Jean-Papy Ramazani (Percussion)
- Kanta Nyboma ( Vocalist )
- Kékélé -All Star Congolese Line up
- Loko Djeskain Massengo ( Vocalist )
- Papa Noel Nedule (Guitar)
- Syran Mbenza (Guitar)
- Wuta Mayi (Vocalist )
- Yves Ndjock (Guitar)
Toleka presents Kékélé
Congolese Rumba Supergroup | Golden Era Masters
Kékélé is a legendary Congolese rumba supergroup formed by some of the most iconic voices and musicians of the genre’s golden era. The band’s members — Nyboma Mwan’dido, Wuta Mayi, Loko “Djeskain” Massengo, Bumba Massa, Papa Noël Nedule, Syran Mbenza, Yves Ndjock, and Jean-Papy Ramazani — each have distinguished solo careers spanning decades, performing with and leading some of Africa’s most celebrated orchestras and bands, including TPOK Jazz, Afrisa International, Tabu Ley Rochereau, Madilu System, and Pépé Kallé, as well as their own renowned collective Les Quatre Étoiles.
Originally assembled to record a single album, Kékélé’s chemistry and artistry captured the world’s attention. Their debut became a global success, leading to further acclaimed releases and a live album from their North American tour. The band’s elegant, guitar-rich sound and layered vocal harmonies revitalised classic Congolese rumba for a new generation, earning them recognition as true custodians of African musical heritage.
The group’s artistry and cultural influence even caught the attention of former U.S. President Barack Obama, who highlighted their track “Consequence” among the defining sounds of the African continent.
Now returning to the stage, Kékélé is ready to bring their timeless sophistication and golden-era rumba sound to new audiences — from major world-music festivals to concert halls across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Africa. Their performances offer audiences an unforgettable journey through melody, rhythm, and history — a living testament to the enduring power of Congolese rumba and one of the last living testaments to its original repertoire.
With their unmistakable voices and boundless influence, Kékélé stands as one of the great architects of Congolese rumba — a revered super-band whose legacy continues to inspire generations, bridging continents and connecting cultures through the timeless rhythms of Rumba and Sebene.
Available for international festivals, concert tours, and heritage collaborations. Management: Toleka