Tabu Ley Rochereau

Pascal-Emmanuel Sinamoyi Tabu (Known as "Seigneur Rochereau")

Rumba Singer-Songwriter, Bandleader of African Fiesta, Politician

Born 1937-11-13

Bagata, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Passed Away 2013-11-30 Brussels, Belgium

Lifespan 76 years old

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Notice / Correction

"A song must be like a fragrant flower; it opens softly in the ear and never fades from memory."

Archival Overview

Visionary Congolese rumba pioneer who composed thousands of melodies, launched the career of Mbilia Bel, and in 1970 became the first African musician to headline the Paris Olympia.

Biographical Record

Pascal-Emmanuel Sinamoyi Tabu was born on November 13, 1937, in Bagata, Bandundu. Mentored by Grand Kalle in African Jazz, his silky tenor and melodic genius propelled him to solo stardom with hits like Kelya.

In 1963, Tabu Ley and virtuoso guitarist Dr. Nico Kasanda founded Orchestre African Fiesta, later evolving into African Fiesta National and Afrisa International. In 1970, he made history as the first Black African pop star to headline the legendary Olympia Theatre in Paris with the Rocherettes dancers. Composing over 2,000 songs, including timeless classics like Muzina and Mokolo Nakokufa, he later served as Vice-Governor of Kinshasa.

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Rest in Peace Forever remembered and cherished Your legacy lives on in all of us With deep gratitude for your life and light

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Final Resting Place

Perpetual Memorial

Necropole Entre Terre et Ciel
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

                         GPS: -4.4333, 15.3667                    

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