The birth of Rock’a Mambo
Bowane made the initial round of recruitment for the Esengo label. Then in early 1957, he managed to poach musicians Essou and Rossignol from then-nascent O.K. Jazz. The ill-equipped recording studio rushed to release a first poorly recorded disc that proved to be a failure. Nonetheless, Bowane increased the studio talent pool, convincing Kabasele and his African Jazz to join Essengo. At that time, African Jazz was quite famous.
After renewing its equipment, the studio released a disc titled Chachacha included the song Baila. Baila became very successful and put the studio on the right track. Baila invites one to dance, in a joyful Cuban-like rhythm. The singers repetitively mention Rocka Mambo, which will later become the official band name.
Songs Baila and Serenade Sentimental by Rock’a Mambo, followed by testimonies of late Lutumba Simaro and Dalienst.
Following Baila, Rock A Mambo continued on the Afro-Cuban rhythms that made its first success. The band also blended with African Jazz on occasions. At the end of the above video, famous singer Dalienst affirms the profusion of talents in Rock’a Mambo. This justifies why Kabasele liked singing with Rock’a Mambo band over his African Jazz at times. Esengo label also contracted with band Conga Jazz at that time.
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About
The birth of Rock’a Mambo
First defection
Second Defection, and Actually Dislocation
A Bland Resurrection & Legacy
Timeline
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