LAC’s first single on Canopy Records.
Sung in Lingala by lead vocalist Juanita Euka, ‘Topesa Esengo Na Motema’ (Let Us Give Joy To The Heart) is a call to live life to the fullest and do whatever it takes to live with joy in your heart, even in the face of adversity. Influenced by artists such as Juanita’s late uncle Franco Luambo as well as Pat Thomas & Fela Kuti, it’s the first single from their forthcoming album ‘Esengo’ dropping in Feb.
This song is an expression of celebrating joy. Inspired by the Congolese rumba influence. This style of music in DRC, before the independence was a force of resistance against the colonial powers that were governing in Congo.
The spirit of the song was inspired by all the Congolese women & men that fought get the independence in 1960 when Congo left the Belgian Ruler.
From the 1930’s Congolese music was inspired by Cuban music. In fact this sound was brought to Cuba through the transatlantic slave trade and then the Cuban sound was brought back to Congo via radio.
Congolese people were able to see the similarities and adopted a unique style then gave birth to Congolese Rumba.
A spiritual conversation along the Atlantic Ocean was in constant communication in the music.
Congolese Rumba not only has joy but it’s a force of resistance against oppression.
The radical joy that we need to survive in very difficult times and keep our hearts open.
Congolese Rumba today is recognised as the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
From Independence Chacha of Le Grand Kalle that United 17 African countries at the time of the independence it was the ‘Year for Africa’.
Topesa Esengo Na Motema is a chant to the soul to keep thriving for joy despite adversities and to to keep also fighting for justice, dignity and the liberation of all the people that are being oppressed by the ruling class.
This release on Canopy Records (founded by DJ and label boss Sumosui) is the latest in a conveyor belt of afro influenced bangers - check General Ehi Duncan ‘Africa My No.1’ and their other releases. It’s a new partnership between London Afrobeat Collective and Canopy which will see an album and more remixes coming soon from some of the hottest producers on the planet, starting with the Colombian based US producer Bosq.
Directed by Jordan Rawi (@jordanrawi_film)
Choreography by Odilia Egyiawan (@odilia_e)
Styling by Yeukai Makoni (@empyah_london)
Dancers:
Danielle De Vito Haleyy (@danie_devito)
Vagner Cula (@vagner_ldn)
Noga Ritter (@nogaritter)
Wolo (@wolomusic)
Yolenn C (@c.yolenn)
Sarah Ye Chan (@sarah.yechan)
Mbombo Mfumi (@mbombomfuni)
Yeukai Makoni