- His father wanted him to be a journalist or lawyer. After developing his trademark high-range voice in religious choirs, he made his debut in the Congolese capital Kinshasa at the end of the 1960s.
- He was a Congolese musician whose blend of African, Cuban and Western influences became one of Africa's most popular music styles. He helped modernize Congolese rumba music, contributing to a new genre, soukous, which has influenced music across Africa. With his bands Zaiko Langa Langa, Isifi and Viva La Musica, he had several hits, including "L'Esclave" and "Le Voyageur".
- He was also a fashion and style icon.
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