Frank Bessem's Musiques d'Afrique: Defao & The Big Stars (Congo-Kinshasa)

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Le Général Defao is increasingly popular as a singer, dancer and band leader. He started singing in local bands in Kinshasa as early as 1976, for instance in Orchestre Suka Movema, Fogo Stars, Korotoro and Somo West. Defao was influenced by Zaiko Langa Langa singers of the early years Papa Wemba, Nyoka Longo, Gina Efonge and Evoloko, but Tabu Ley Rochereau was and still is his main inspiration. In 1981, Defao enters Grand Zaiko Wa Wa, the band of guitar wizzard Felix Manuaku. Between 1983 and 1991, he is part of the Choc Stars, led by Ben Nyamabo. In 1991, he created his own band, les Big Stars and recorded a number of albums since. A gifted singer and dancer, Defao has become quite famous in Central Africa. He was one of the first Congolese musicians who valued the importance of TV appearances and videoclips as a means to gain success. Always well dressed and in search for a representative appearance, he is currently trying to lose some of his 115 kilogrammes. Born: as Defao Matumona, 31 December 1958, in Kinshasa. Style: soukous.

Thanks to Dolf Motz for his help in compiling this discography.

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