Top Rumba musician Lesasa Jocker is in town, set to perform today

 The musician who begun singing way back in 1982 in Zaire has become one of the most influential and successful Congolese musicians Photo: Courtesy

Dubai based Rumba cum Tchacho musician Lesasa Jocker is in town. The musician who jetted in four days ago is scheduled to stage two grand concerts in the country.

For a man endowed with enviable artistic skills and more than 20 years of performing experience Lesasa, who was once based in Kenya is cutting his niche as the undisputable singer who is among those putting Congolese music in the international world map.

His voice is iconic and his suggestive masculine dance moves are a signature force, which now defines energy and vigour is echoed in most of his tracks.

During one his shows held last year on what many described as a chilly Rumba night, Lesasa belted out some of his popular and latest songs before descending on the drums dance floor where he managed to showcase some of his best moves to the eclectic pull of the loyal crowd.

Contagiously, the crowd lightened up with song and dance as revellers joined in, consumed in the singing maestro’s magic.

This time round he is back in the country accompanied by his 14 band member- Bilenge Musica International Dubai, and will stage a grand concert this Saturday June 25, at the newly refurbished club Afrique situated within Raphta Road Westlands area in Nairobi starting 8.30 pm.

With gate charges pegged at Sh300 per person Local curtain raiser Prezda Bandasson alongside his band will ensure that fans are given maximum entertainment.  

This aside, Lesasa will hold another invites only exclusive premium show at Casino Medium in Westlands, next Thursday June 30, to mark the independence of Congo.

The events organized by renowned local promoter Jules Nsana promises entertainment with a difference with fans from various walks of life expected to be in attendance.  

Dubbed The return of Lesasa Joker  he promises to treat his rumba fans to a blend of Congolese instrumentation — something he describes as ‘International pure Rumba that will keep them on their feet all night long to his rich scintillating sounds.

 “This is one show you cannot afford to miss considering I will use the opportunity to give fans a taste of my new music including lots of surprises,” says Lesasa. 

Undoubtedly considered one of the best entertainers, he says his mission is to bring back rumba rhythm with a difference.

Known for his fashionable dressing and energetic stage performances the high riding musician has continuously captured the imagination of the nation with their waist cum hip-shaking sexy style in Kenya and abroad over the years.

Critics will attest to the fact that his music is properly arranged with carefully thought out lyrics attracting enthusiastic followers, much to the chagrin of his competitors. His singles bare the longevity stamp. His followers cut across the ages. 18 years on, how ridiculous would the truth sound, that Lesasa best is still to come.

His melodious voice sets him apart from the “boys”.

“I am inspired by veteran musicians the likes of Zaiko Langa Langa and Koffi Olomide, daily life happenings and conversations. I thought of no better way than to put it in form of music in order to pass on the message to the rest of the people out there.”

Indeed keen music listeners will agree that Lesasa’s music continues to be enjoying to date.

The musician who bears ambition as his middle name reveals his success emanates from his disciplinary nature, proper planning besides embracing - seriousness as far as his career is concerned.

“It’s unfortunate that most musicians lack above qualities, hence the reason for their short-lived careers.”

 Long way to stardom

Formed more than a decade ago by Lesasa, Bilenge Musica dominated the country's Lingala scenario with unique style creating a unique African sound, quality music and energetic performances.

 “It has always been our desire to make quality music, something different from what’s is played on the radio,” says Lesasa.   “Musically, we see opportunity everywhere, but to make good music, we can’t be in a rush,” explains Lesasa.

Due to his popularity Lesasa secured a contract to perform in Dubai alongside his band. What started as simple trip ended up being part of them as they often made trips to and fro Dubai due to public demand.

During the times Lesasa left one of his lead singers Darze Khalend in charge of the Nairobi based Bilenge band while he took charge of the one in Dubai.

However, in September 2010 upon being left alone after his former colleague Lesasa Joker flew to Dubai with the entire band - Darze decided to form his own band Bilenge Musica du Congo.

Although this did not go down well with Lesasa who was reportedly furious at him for sometime- the differences were soon resolved - and both parties are still doing music for a living.

Today, the musician who begun singing way back in 1982, in Zaire has become one of the most influential and successful Congolese musicians, having played to thousands of fans all over the country.

There’s no doubt that the group works towards, leaving an impression with their contagious energy during their numerous live music gigs in Dubai's Rush Inn Hotel in the old town of Dubai, United Arab Emirates including various clubs in Kenya.

The group's talents are impressionable, leaving no equal serving in their musical prowess.“We still have a really big catalog of songs that haven’t been recorded, but we'll be recording again very soon,” he adds.