De Roma is organising the second edition of the Bal Congolais. In 2026, we will warmly welcome you to pay tribute to Papa Wemba (1949-2016), who passed away ten years ago. A special band led by Chibida will present the musical project Dans la peau de Papa Wemba (In the Skin of Papa Wemba). 

Papa Wemba, born Jules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba in 1949 in Belgian Congo, became one of the greatest icons of African music. He co-founded Zaïko Langa Langa and later Viva la Musica. His career of nearly fifty years made him a legend of Congolese rumba, the genre he brought to international recognition. Although he incorporated influences from rock, ndombolo and world music, rumba remained his hallmark. He died in 2016 in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, after collapsing during a performance.

Several musicians who each had a personal connection with Papa Wemba are playing together especially for Bal Congolais.

Awilo Longomba began his career as a drummer in Papa Wemba's band, where he developed his musical identity and discipline. His later international success built on the artistic foundation he developed under Papa Wemba, making him one of the most influential ambassadors of modern Congolese music.

As the initiator of Dans la peau de Papa Wemba, Chibida directly honours Papa Wemba's legacy and places his influence at the centre of his artistic vision. His melodic and humanistic style is in line with the spiritual and cultural path that Papa Wemba set out in Congolese music.

The musical identity of Badi is deeply rooted in Congolese rumba, a tradition in which Papa Wemba was a central figure and which Badi consciously incorporates into his Afro-rap. By integrating Papa Wemba's cultural legacy into a modern form of hip hop, Badi connects generations and reinterprets Wemba's influence for a new audience.

Chabrown was artistically shaped during twelve years of collaboration with Papa Wemba, a period that profoundly influenced his singing, dancing and stage presence. His solo work clearly bears the stamp of Papa Wemba's style, both in choreography and vocal expression.

Costa Mbunda developed his musical maturity during seventeen years of collaboration with Papa Wemba, during which he became one of the recognisable guitarists of his sound. His current solo career builds on the technical finesse and artistic sensitivity he refined under Papa Wemba's guidance.

Line-up 

Singers
Chibida, Chabrown, Antonio, Claudine, Erickson Dikwam, Hewa Bora

Musicians
Costa Mbunda, Jordan Diapason, HBass, Raphaël de la Tige, Merdi Drum, Cedric Buya

Dancers
Awa, Naomie, Tonton Ralenti

Guests
Awilo Longomba, Badi, Celeo Scram, Hans Luzolo

Initiator
Chibida

Artistic Director
Costa Mbunda