The first full-length LP dedicated to the early work of pioneering Congolese guitarist Jean-Bosco Mwenda!

Jean-Bosco created a totally unique approach to the acoustic guitar in the 1950s, and was perhaps the single greatest influence on early Central and East African guitarists. He was incredibly popular throughout the region, recording 200 sides for local release, and became known worldwide for the stunning guitar line on the song "Masanga."

Despite his renown, he was a private man who insisted that music was a side job, and he focused on running his small businesses in Lubumbashi. While still beloved in Congo, Mwenda's music fell out of popularity globally, and, with few exceptions, these early recordings have not been heard outside of small private collections.

This album features 12 rare songs of beautiful, complex fingerstyle guitar & Mwenda's warm voice, as well as two beloved classics. All tracks are restored from original 78 RPM discs. Vinyl edition includes an insert with full lyric translations, bio, and photos.

"There are many musicians who play my songs, and me, I only play my own."
credits
released June 11, 2019

Songs by Jean-Bosco Mwenda, recorded 1952 - 1962