NÈNÈ TCHAKOU BIOGRAPHY

 NÈNÈ TCHAKOU BIOGRAPHY

Real Name: Nene Mbendi Mandosa 

Birth: 1957, Banana, Bas Congo region, Democratic Republic of Congo

Early Music Career

Tchakou's music journey began early in his teenage years, influenced by his surroundings and a group of youngsters whose parents were affiliated with the army. His professional career took a significant step forward in 1973 when he joined Bella Nigrita, where he composed his first song. His reputation as a talented guitarist started to grow during this time.

In 1981, he became a member of the popular group Langa Langa Stars, where he began performing under the stage name 'Tchakou' (meaning parrot). Concurrently, he also played with Minzoto Wella Wella, a group associated with his comrade Ngouma Lokito.

Rise to Prominence

By 1983, Nène joined Grand Zaiko Wawa under the leadership of Pepe Felix Manuaku Waku, one of the most acclaimed and fastest solo guitarists of the third generation of Congolese music. It was here that he met Henry Lukombo Nzambi, later known as Shimita El Diego, who would become one of his closest friends.

The mid-1980s saw a wave of Congolese musicians migrating to Paris via West Africa, seeking broader audiences and opportunities. Nène joined the session group International ZaiStar based in Nigeria and released an album with them before moving to Paris.

The Parisian Soukous Era

On May 5, 1989, in a Paris hotel, several session musicians formed a new group named Soukous Stars, led by Lokassa Ya Mbongo, a renowned rhythm guitarist from Afrisa and African All Stars fame. Nène was one of the original members, becoming the second resident solo guitarist. His contributions were pivotal in most of the group's future albums, solidifying his place in the Soukous music scene.

Session Work

Nène Tchakou is perhaps best known in the Soukous world for his extensive work as a session guitarist. Throughout the 1990s, he collaborated with numerous top Soukous musicians, lending his expertise and distinctive style to countless recordings.

Solo Ventures

In addition to his group work, Nène has released three solo albums, showcasing his versatility and depth as an artist. In 2002, he relocated to Stockton, California, where he began working as an arranger with Rowa Records.

Compiled by The Rhumba_commissioner

 Listen to Jabulani Radio

Next Track