every Friday, Le Monde Afrique showcases three exciting new musical releases from or inspired by the African continent.Kicking off the year, the spotlight is on the Democratic Republic of Congo, featuring tracks from the dynamic duo Article15, the renowned group Jupiter & Okwess, and the collaborative effort of Ale Hop & Titi Bakorta. Article15’s latest single “Hallelujah” delivers a powerful blend of baroque electro, addressing the harsh realities of Kinshasa through poignant lyrics.Simultaneously occurring, Jupiter & Okwess are set to release their new album Ekoya on January 31, with the uplifting track “Les Bons Comptes,” featuring Brazilian singer Flavia Coelho.Lastly, the collaboration between Titi Bakorta and Ale Hop promises a vibrant fusion of soukous and psychedelic rhythms in their upcoming album Mapambazuko, scheduled for release on January 25. For more musical gems, check out the Le Monde Afrique YouTube playlist.
Interview: Exploring the Vibrant Sounds of the Democratic republic of Congo
Time.news Editor (TNE): Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with music expert Dr. Mosi Nkulu, who specializes in African music and it’s global impact. with the recent focus of le Monde Afrique on new releases from the Democratic Republic of Congo, we’re excited to dive into this musical landscape. Dr. Nkulu, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Mosi Nkulu (DMN): Thank you for having me, it’s great to be here!
TNE: le Monde Afrique highlighted several exciting new releases this January. Could you tell us about Article15’s single “Hallelujah”? What makes it stand out in the current musical scene?
DMN: Absolutely! Article15’s “Hallelujah” mixes baroque electro with contemporary issues faced in Kinshasa. The poignant lyrics resonate deeply with listeners, addressing societal challenges while offering an innovative sound. This fusion reflects the evolving nature of Congolese music, where traditional influences are artfully combined with modern genres. It’s a compelling example of how music serves as both an artistic and social commentary.
TNE: That’s fascinating! Moving on to Jupiter & Okwess, their upcoming album Ekoya is generating buzz. What can fans expect from their single “Les Bons Comptes,” especially with the inclusion of Brazilian singer Flavia coelho?
DMN: Jupiter & Okwess is well-known for their high-energy performances and distinctive sound.”Les Bons comptes” is particularly exciting because it infuses Afrobeat with Brazilian rhythms, creating a cross-cultural dialog. Collaborations like this highlight the global language of music, bridging gaps between different cultures. Fans can expect an uplifting and rhythmic track that embodies joy and community spirit.
TNE: Collaboration is clearly a theme this month. Can you shed light on the partnership between Titi Bakorta and Ale hop in their upcoming album Mapambazuko?
DMN: Yes! The collaboration between Titi Bakorta and Ale Hop promises to bring something unique to the table. They’re merging soukous—a genre that originated in the Congo—with psychedelic rhythms, which is relatively fresh. This blend not only showcases the versatility of Congolese music but also pushes the boundaries of genres. Their upcoming album, scheduled for release on January 25, could be a remarkable addition to the contemporary music scene.
TNE: How critically important is it for platforms like Le Monde Afrique to feature African artists?
DMN: Extremely important! Platforms like Le Monde Afrique play a crucial role in amplifying African voices on a global scale. They provide visibility to artists who may otherwise go unnoticed, and highlight the rich diversity of music across the continent.As the global music market becomes more interconnected, it’s essential that African artists are recognized for their contributions, helping to reshape perceptions and promote cultural exchange.
TNE: What advice do you have for emerging artists from the African continent aiming to break into the international scene?
DMN: Emerging artists should focus on developing their unique sound while being open to collaboration. Networking both locally and internationally can lead to exciting opportunities. It’s essential to leverage digital platforms and streaming services for a broader reach, while also considering the cultural narratives they want to share. Authenticity and storytelling in music resonate well with audiences worldwide.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Nkulu, for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that the Democratic Republic of Congo is a vibrant source of musical innovation, and these artists are truly paving the way for the future of African music.
DMN: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these exciting developments. I look forward to seeing how these artists continue to evolve and inspire!