Kékélé was a band formed in 2000 by producer Ibrahim Sylla, featuring veteran African musicians from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The group aimed to revive Congolese rumba music using acoustic guitars and slow tempos reminiscent of the 1950s-70s. Their debut album, Rumba Congo, released in June 2001, was critically acclaimed for its elegant sensuality and high-quality musicianship. Core members included vocalists Nyboma Mwan'dido, Wuta Mayi, Bumba Massa, Loko 'Djeskain' Massengo, and guitarist Syran Mbenza. Their second album, Congo Life, released in 2003, introduced additional instruments like flute, clarinet, and violin. The third album, Kinavana, released in February 2006, featured collaborations with Manu Dibango, Mbilia Bel, and Madilu System.
