The evergreen song “Kasongo,” originally performed by Orch Super Mazembe, is experiencing a resurgence in Kenya, now linked to social and political commentary.
Originally written by the iconic Alley Katele, who also took on lead vocals, the track features a woman pleading for her estranged husband to return home. This classic has recently been reinterpreted by social media creatives, who have infused the song with satirical lyrics targeted at Kenya’s political leadership. Super Mazembe, also known as Bana Mushosho, initially established their roots in Zambia during the mid-1970s before moving to Kenya.
Under the tutelage of renowned Zambian musician and producer Nashil Pinchen Kazembe, the band created music primarily in the Bemba language. “Kasongo,” sung in Lingala, found new life in Kenya amidst rising political tensions, particularly during the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. This revitalization has been accompanied by an array of memes and videos depicting political figures in humorous settings.
The original narrative of “Kasongo” revolves around a distressed woman seeking reassurances from her husband regarding his return, as she grapples with inquiries from their children and others concerned about his absence. Music promoter DS Njoroge emphasizes that the song centres on domestic issues rather than themes of deceit. The melody, however, has resonated widely, with many Kenyans creatively adapting it.
Jose Okello, a guitarist from the original band who now resides in Australia, recalls “Kasongo” as one of the group’s most cherished compositions. Its success enabled Super Mazembe to perform extensively in various African nations and beyond. The contemporary reinterpretation of “Kasongo” is part of a greater trend in Kenya, where people of all ages are rediscovering popular Congolese classics.
This revival is particularly evident in school choirs redoing Lingala songs and the recent cover by TikToker Lynder Matiko, dubbed the “Rhumba Queen.” Interestingly, while the song may seem autobiographical, Alley Katele drew inspiration from a fictional character rather than any individual in the band. Super Mazembe included two members named Kasongo: guitarist Kasongo Songo Ley and singer Kasongo wa Kanema, who joined long after the song’s original release.
Kanema, a prominent tenor vocalist, took on band leadership following the death of Didos Longwa and was celebrated for his lead role in “Kakolele Viva Christmas.” He passed away in Nairobi in May 2020 and was interred at Lang’ata cemetery. “Kasongo” was produced in two versions, one specific to Zambia and another for the Kenyan audience, forming part of an impressive repertoire that included tracks like “Nabimakate,” “Shida,” “Sela Keba,” and “Mwana Mazembe.”
Samba Mapangala, a US-based singer who was the leader of Les Kinois and later Virunga, provided guest vocals on some of Super Mazembe’s recordings. Under Longwa Didos Mutonkole’s leadership, the group gained popularity, performing at various Agricultural Society of Kenya fairs. Loboko Pasi, the last surviving member of Super Mazembe still residing in Nairobi, expresses his delight at the renewed interest in “Kasongo” on social media.
He hopes the public recognizes the song’s correct interpretation, emphasizing its focus on domestic matters. Currently affiliated with the Mazembe Academia group, Loboko is optimistic about the song’s resurgence. The Bana Mazembe Band, a continuation of Super Mazembe, is led by Ngoe Disco Longwa, the son of the original band leader, Longwa Didos.
This group actively performs at various venues in Nairobi, preserving the legacy of “Kasongo” and the broader contribution of Super Mazembe to the music landscape.
