Papa Wendo (Born Antoine Kolosoy)
April 25, 1925 – July 28, 2008
“Papa” Wendo Kolosoy was a Congolese musician who successfully blended cha-cha, rumba, and tango, endearing him to world music fans around the globe. He was affectionately called the “Father of Congolese Music.” Kolosoy began singing when he was in his early teens working as a sailor along the Congo River – he used his talents to entertain the other passengers. By the mid ’50s he was one of the most popular Congolese musicians throughout Africa and beyond. In 1965, Kolosoy began a long hiatus claiming his dislike at politicians using music and musicians to advance their agendas. Kolosoy returned to music in 1997 after a change in political power in the Congo. Papa Wendo passed away on July 28, 2008 at the age of 83.
Thanks to Craig Rosen at Number 1 Albums for the assist.
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