Kinshasa, June 23rd, 2026 (CPA). – A concert by singer Reddy Amisi from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in tribute to Papa Wemba, an iconic figure of Congolese rumba who died in 2016, is scheduled for September 26th in La Louviere, in Belgium, according to a press release published by the artist on his social media page, viewed on Tuesday by CPA.
‘After moving Parisian audiences with his stirring tribute to Papa Wemba at the Musee du quai Branly-Jacques Chirac, Reddy Amisi continues this duty to remember by once again celebrating the man who was his mentor, his guide and one of the greatest icons of Congolese rumba. On September 26th, 2026, we’re heading to Belgium, specifically to La Louviere, for an exceptional evening dedicated to Papa Wemba’s musical and cultural legacy,” it is read. For the artist known as Bailo Canto, this concert is a journey through time, promising, for the occasion, a varied repertoire designed to bring Papa Wemba’s legacy back to life, combining history, memories and emotion.
“Through his songs, his memories and his immense respect for the man he calls his mentor, Reddy Amisi will bring the spirit of ‘Viva La Musica’ back to life in a show rich in emotion, elegance and authenticity,” the source has added. Ten years after his death on April 24th, 2016, in Abidjan, in the Ivory Coast, Papa Wemba remains a leading figure in Congolese rumba, which was designated as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in December 2021. “We will be there to celebrate together the memory of a legend who continues to inspire entire generations. Papa Wemba is no longer with us, but his legacy lives on forever,” the statement has concluded. Reddy Amisi, one of the ardent champions of Congolese rumba, has shared a deep connection with his audience during his first tribute concert to Papa Wemba. He has performed several of Papa Wemba’s classics alongside Lidjo Kwempa, Djuna Djanana, Fofo lr Collegien, Patient Kusangila, Rama Ramazani, Lady Miyembe, Iko Yoka Lokole, Alcapone Titina and Fila Basele. Through this performance, he has reaffirmed that rumba remains a living language, destined to be passed down from generation to generation, in keeping with the vision that Papa Wemba championed during his lifetime. CPA/