Paul Kamba

Paul Kamba
Born(1912-12-12)December 12, 1912
Mpouya, Congo
DiedMarch 19, 1950(1950-03-19) (aged 37)
Brazzaville, Congo
GenresCongolese rumba
Occupations
Instrumentguitar
Years active1935–1950
LabelsNgoma

Paul Kamba (12 December 1912 – 19 March 1950) was a Congolese singer-songwriter, guitarist, composer, and one of the foundational figures in the development of Congolese rumba. Renowned for his vocal mastery, lyrical compositions, and pioneering contributions to ensemble instrumentation and arrangement, Kamba is widely recognized as one of the early architects of modern Central African popular music. His work laid the groundwork for a musical renaissance that would influence generations of artists and define the sonic identity of both Congos.