The Congolese rumba, recognised by UNESCO in 2021 as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, radiated far beyond the Congo. In Belgium, a distinct form of this music developed.
Les Belgicains – this is what Congolese people called their compatriots living in Belgium. Among them were students in particular, who had brought their music with them from a country that had gained independence in 1960 and were now developing it under new conditions. Producer Nikiforos Cavvadias released the music of these student orchestras on his label Covadia. There is a spirit of departure in it, a lightness that carries the hope of a new future for a country brutally exploited during the colonial period.
Which musical influences, especially via Brussels, later found their way back to the Congo would require a more substantial study. The bands heard on Na Tango Ya Covadia 1964–1970 Vol. 2 are, in any case, joyfully experimenting with merengue, guaracha and other styles. Not with the magisterial command of Franco, Tabu Ley Rochereau, Grand Kalle and others, but with fresh spirit and far removed from conventional ideas of student bands. Just listen to »Princessia Nono« by Afro Negro or »Guaracha Fredo« by Los Nickelos.
