Mbenzu Ngamboni Bokili, widely celebrated as Bozi Boziana, is a quintessential figure in Congolese music, renowned as a charismatic singer, songwriter, and bandleader whose career spans decades and multiple legendary soukous bands. Born in 1951, his musical journey is an incredible illustration of the constant splintering and re-formation that defined the Kinshasa music scene. He first found major success in 1974 when he joined Zaiko Langa Langa, one of the most influential groups of all time, alongside future stars like Papa Wemba and Evoloko Jocker. His ambition led him to co-found a series of other short-lived but impactful groups, including Isifi Lokole and Yoka Lokole, before joining the all-star band Langa Langa Stars. However, it was during his time with Choc Stars in the mid-1980s that he cemented his fame with hits like "Sandu Kotti" and "Alena." In 1985, Bozi Boziana launched his own highly influential orchestra, Anti-Choc (a nod to his Zaiko Langa Langa roots), which quickly became a major force in soukous and was famous for introducing a string of talented female vocalists like Deesse Mukangi and Scola Miel. Known fondly as "Le Grand Père" (The Grandfather), his music is characterized by upbeat melodies, passionate vocals, and infectious rhythms, confirming his status as an enduring icon whose distinct style has had a profound and lasting impact on the evolution of modern African dance music.