Tabu Ley Seigneur Rochereau

Tabu Ley Rochereau came to prominence in the band African Jazz, formed in 1953 which popularised the form of local rumba by blending the use of indigenous instruments, rhythms and vocal styles with imported elements, including Latin dance beats, electric guitars and westernised arrangements.

Rochereau’s lyrical compositions and sweet singing voice earned him almost instant success with group, but in the early 1960s he broke away to form African Fiesta, a short-lived partnership with Dr Nico. Actively seeking inspiration from outside Rochereau said:

In the 1970’s Rochereau consolidated his position as the country’s most popular singer whilst also bringing African music to an international audience with his band Afrisa International, whose members included, at points, Sam Mangwana and Papa Wemba.

In 1985 Rochereau performed at the WOMAD festival on Mersea Island, Essex.

In later life, living back in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rochereau took on a number of political roles, including that of vice-governor of Kinshasa.

Tabu Ley Rochereau (Pascal-Emmanuel Sinamoyi Tabu), singer, songwriter and bandleader, born 13 November 1937; died 30 November 2013