Awilo Longomba

File:Vicky Longomba et sa famille.jpg (left), his mother, Fatou Mbonzo Diawara (center), and his younger brother, Julien "Rocky" Longomba (right).]]

Awilo Longomba was born Louis Albert William Longomba on 5 May 1962, in Kinshasa (formerly Léopoldville) to a Mongo father and a Ngombe mother from Équateur Province. Longomba hailed from a well-known musical family: his father, Vicky Longomba, was the lead vocalist and founding member of Tout Puissant OK Jazz.{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pgQ5AQAAIAAJ&q=Awilo+Longomba+dad's+Vicky+Longomba |title=The Beat |publisher=Bongo Productions |year=1998 |location=Toronto, Ontario, Canada |pages=51 |language=en}}{{Cite book |last=Winders |first=J. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iqoYDAAAQBAJ&dq=Awilo+Longomba+dad%27s+Vicky+Longomba&pg=PA93 |title=Paris Africain: Rhythms of the African Diaspora |date=5 June 2007 |publisher=Springer |isbn=978-0-230-60207-6 |location=Midtown Manhattan, New York City State, United States |pages=93 |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Awilo Longomba biography |url=https://www.last.fm/music/Awilo+Longomba/+wiki |access-date=10 September 2023 |website=Last.fm |language=en}} He was born to a family of six sisters and three brothers.{{Cite web |date=28 December 2023 |title=Hommage à son père Vicky Longomba: Julien Rocky Longomba lance le single " Yeba nameki komeka " |trans-title=Tribute to his father Vicky Longomba: Julien Rocky Longomba launches the single "Yeba nameki komeka" |url=https://lequotidienrdc.com/hommage-a-son-pere-vicky-longomba-julien-rocky-longomba-lance-le-single-yeba-nameki-komeka/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Lequotidienrdc.com |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |last=Matiko |first=Thomas |date=13 March 2021 |title=Christian Longomba of 'Vuta Pumz' fame breathes his last |url=https://nation.africa/kenya/news/christian-longomba-vuta-pumz-breathes-his-last--3322194 |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Daily Nation |language=en |publication-place=Nairobi, Kenya}}{{Cite web |last=Ilado |first=Lucy |date=15 March 2021 |title=Longombas member Christian dies aged 36 |url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/magazine/longombas-member-christian-dies-aged-36 |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Music in Africa |language=en}} He is the uncle of the Kenyan-based music duo Lovy Longomba and the late Christian Longomba.{{Cite web |last=Tunoi |first=Kevin |date=1 May 2022 |title=Vita vitakatifu: Prophet Lovy Longomba beats opponent in Muay Thai fight |url=https://www.tuko.co.ke/entertainment/celebrities/453104-prophet-lovy-longomba-celebrates-after-winning-mixed-martial-arts-match-us/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Tuko.co.ke |language=en |publication-place=Nairobi, Kenya}}{{Cite web |last=Orido |first=Fred |date=6 June 2004 |title=Kenya: Lifestyle Magazine |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/200406060099.html |access-date=31 July 2024 |website=Daily Nation |publication-place=Nairobi, Kenya}} His older sister, Malou Longomba, is the mother of French professional soccer player Claude Makélélé.

As a child, Longomba spent every moment around music, frequently attending his father's rehearsals. His father, influenced by his views on contemporary musicians as dissolute figures, often clothed himself in sartorial splendor and ardently discouraged his son from pursuing a music career. In an interview with Daily Nation, Longomba mentioned, "My father inspired me but he never wanted me to get into music. Despite that, he was a loving father who ensured that all his children got a good education".{{Cite web |last=Ilado |first=Lucy |date=5 July 2020 |title=When Awilo, son of the legendary Vicky Longomba, came to town |url=https://nation.africa/kenya/life-and-style/weekend/when-awilo-son-of-the-legendary-vicky-longomba-came-to-town-336046 |access-date=19 December 2023 |website=Daily Nation |language=en |publication-place=Nairobi, Kenya}} Logomba's passion for music burgeoned exponentially, leading him to abandon school and become a drummer for Papa Wemba's band Viva La Musica in 1985.{{Cite web |date=3 June 2006 |title=Qui est Awilo Longomba? |trans-title=Who is Awilo Longomba? |url=https://www.nation.sc/archive/213812/qui-est-awilo-longomba- |access-date=3 May 2024 |website=Seychelles Nation |language=Fr |publication-place=Victoria, Seychelles}}{{Cite web |last=Lubabu MK |first=Tshitenge |date=7 May 2010 |title=Awilo Longomba, porte-étendard de la "techno-soukouss" |trans-title=Awilo Longomba, standard-bearer of "techno-soukouss" |url=https://www.jeuneafrique.com/197152/culture/awilo-longomba-porte-tendard-de-la-techno-soukouss/ |access-date=12 October 2023 |website=Jeune Afrique |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Paris, France}}{{Cite web |last=Lavaine |first=Bertrand |date=24 December 2009 |title=Awilo, l'héritage Longomba |trans-title=Awilo, the Longomba heritage |url=https://musique.rfi.fr/musique/20091224-awilo-lheritage-longomba |access-date=10 September 2023 |publisher=Radio France Internationale |language=fr |publication-place=Paris, France}}

{{Multiple image

| total_width = 200

| image1 = Awilo Longomba et Viva La Musica en 1986, Tokyo, Japon.jpg

| caption1 = Longomba (far left) photographed in one of Matonge's studios during his tenure with Viva La Musica as part of their 1986 Euro–Asia tour.

| caption_align = center

| align = left

}}

In 1986, as part of their Euro–Asia tours, Longomba and Viva La Musica toured Matonge in Brussels to record their album Destin ya Moto at Gina Efonge's bar. There, his stature as an exceptional drummer within the group gained momentum.{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SyY8AQAAIAAJ&q=Papa+Wemba+Destin+ya+Moto |title=Jeune Afrique L'intelligent, Issues 2278–2286 |publisher=Groupe Jeune Afrique |year=2004 |location=Paris, France |pages=17 |language=fr}}{{Cite news |last1=Gargan |first1=Edward A. |last2=Times |first2=Special To the New York |date=28 April 1986 |title=ZAIRE NOW DANCING TO DIFFERENT BEAT |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1986/04/28/world/zaire-now-dancing-to-different-beat.html |access-date=14 September 2023 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |publication-place=New York City, United States |issn=0362-4331}} In 1989, he permanently relocated to Paris and applied for his Carte de Séjour.{{Cite book |last=Winders |first=James A. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iqoYDAAAQBAJ&dq=awilo+longomba+france+1986&pg=PA93 |title=Paris Africain: Rhythms of the African Diaspora |date=5 June 2007 |publisher=Palgrave Macmillan |isbn=978-0-230-60207-6 |location=New York City, United States |pages=93 |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Carte de Séjour Residence Permit: Guidelines and Categories |url=https://visaguide.world/europe/france-visa/residence-permits/carte-de-sejour/ |access-date=10 May 2025 |website=Visaguide.world}} During his residency in Paris, Longomba encountered prejudiced attitudes towards Afro-French and became increasingly resentful of the emergence of Jean-Marie Le Pen's movement, which accentuated the pervasiveness of racism in France, particularly within political factions like the National Front. In a 1996 interview with historian James A. Winders of Appalachian State University, Longomba noted "....I saw that there was discrimination coming from the prefecture-how they spoke to people, to Africans, to others who did not understand French well. It was there that I saw that there is a very dangerous discrimination". Though not as high-profile as Ray Lema, he had assimilated into Parisian life and had formed a personal attachment to the city.

{{Multiple image

| total_width = 190

| image1 = Awilo et Patricia Longomba 1980s.jpg

| caption1 = Longomba and his sister Patricia in Kinshasa in the 1980s

| caption_align = center

}}

In the early 1990s, while with Viva La Musica, Longomba began drumming for various Congolese bands, including Orchestre Stukas and Loketo. In 1991, he toured Kenya for the first time, accompanying Aurlus Mabélé and the Loketo band as a drummer.{{Cite web |last=Ngaira |first=Amos |date=3 December 2000 |title=Kenya: Beats Of The Season In The City |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/200012030128.html |access-date=31 May 2024 |website=Daily Nation |publication-place=Nairobi, Kenya}} A year later, he parted ways with Viva La Musica and founded his band, La Nouvelle Génération, of which he became the bandleader, accompanied by members Luciana de Mingongo, Lidjo Kwempa, Fataki Ndoko José, Maray Maray, Maestro Fanfan, and Fafa de Molokaï. The newly established group swiftly garnered acclaim in Africa and produced several albums. He collaborated on numerous records in France and toured globally with prominent African artists.{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pgQ5AQAAIAAJ&q=Awilo+Longomba+1992+%22Viva+La+Musica%22 |title=The Beat |publisher=Bongo Productions |year=1998 |location=Toronto, Ontario, Canada |pages=50–51 |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Enyimo |first=Martin |date=27 May 2015 |title=Disparition: le guitariste Yves Demukuse s'éteint en France |trans-title=Disappearance: guitarist Yves Demukuse dies in France |url=https://www.adiac-congo.com/content/disparition-le-guitariste-yves-demukuse-seteint-en-france-32948 |access-date=24 April 2024 |website=Adiac-congo.com |language=Fr |publication-place=Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=p5SNAAAAIAAJ&q=awilo+longomba+La+Nouvelle+G%C3%A9n%C3%A9ration |title=Africa international |publisher=Africa S.A. |year=2000 |location=South Africa |language=fr}}{{Cite web |last=Diala |first=Jordache |date=15 November 2016 |title=Awilo Longomba: J'ai eu une bonne relation avec Barbara Kanam, mais sans fruits |trans-title=Awilo Longomba: I had a good relationship with Barbara Kanam, but without results |url=https://www.mediacongo.net/article-actualite-21978_awilo_longomba_j_ai_eu_une_bonne_relation_avec_barbara_kanam_mais_sans_fruits.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |website=Mediacongo.net |language=fr |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} He became a French citizen in 1994, having married a French woman.

In 1995, Longomba departed from La Nouvelle Génération and went on to unveil his debut solo studio album, titled Moto Pamba.{{Cite book |last= |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pgQ5AQAAIAAJ&q=awilo%20Longomba%20Moto%20Pamba |title=The Beat, Volume 17 |date=1998 |publisher=Beat Magazine |location=Melbourne, Australia |pages=51 |language=en}}{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hK84AQAAIAAJ&q=awilo%20Longomba%20Moto%20Pamba |title=Rhythm Music Magazine: RMM, Volume 6 |date=1997 |publisher=K.F. Russell |pages=33 |language=en}} The record, which consisted of eight tracks, was produced by Paris-based Jip Productions and distributed by Mélodie Distribution. Moto Pamba was a blend of Congolese rumba and soukous.{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=s2QvAQAAIAAJ&q=awilo%20Longomba%20Moto%20Pamba |title=Parade and Foto-action |date=1997 |publisher=Thomson Publications (Zimbabwe) (Pvt.) Limited |pages=47 |language=en}} He was the album's composer, lead vocalist, and drummer, while Ballou Canta and Shimita provided backing vocals, and Miguel Yamba, Ngouma Lokito, and Pablo Lubadika Porthos contributed on bass guitar. Moto Pamba also featured guitars by Lokassa Ya M'Bongo, Emmanuel Samba, Rigo Star, Dally Kimoko, and Syran Mbenza, with mixing by Thierry Doumergue and percussion by 3615 Niaou and Mavungu Malanda. Additional vocals were provided by Abby Surya, Dindo Yogo, Kuleta Pompon, Luciana Demingongo, and Sam Mangwana.{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4tUsAQAAIAAJ&q=awilo%20Longomba%20Moto%20Pamba |title=Afrique magazine, Issues 269–274 |date=2008 |publisher=Jeune Afrique Media Group |location=Paris, France |pages=76 |language=fr}} In an interview with La Prospérité, Longomba revealed that during Moto Pamba's production, the director exhorted him to prioritise singing over drumming. He also briefed the press that his voice astonished everyone when the record came out. The album's break-out singles "Moyen Te" and "Betty Mulanga" gained significant success in Africa.{{Cite web |last=Ngaira |first=Amos |date=21 March 1999 |title=Kenya: Awaiting The Longomba Guitar Magic |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/199903210025.html |access-date=31 July 2024 |website=Daily Nation |publication-place=Nairobi, Kenya}} Despite the album's success, Longomba continued to work as a drummer for various artists, including Gabonese singer Oliver N'Goma and Tshala Muana's backup group.

During a performance at Kampala Serena Hotel that same year, where he accompanied Oliver N'Goma, Longomba chose to perform incognito in the first show and adopt the pseudonym "Willy" to avoid stealing N'Goma's spotlight. However, he eventually revealed himself during the second show and received an enthusiastic response from the audience. The Seychelles Nation even noted that his presence compelled "N'Goma to take the risk of presenting it". The concert provided an opportunity to promote Moto-Pamba. In 1996, Longomba further promoted the album through a live performance at Parc de la Villette in Paris and subsequently won the Best Artist of Central Africa at the first edition of the Kora Awards.{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pgQ5AQAAIAAJ&q=awilo+longomba+Moto+Pamba+1995 |title=The Beat |publisher=Bongo Productions |year=1998 |location=Toronto, Ontario, Canada |pages=51 |language=en}} He received the same accolade on 1 October 1997.{{Cite web |date=1 October 1997 |title=African healing |url=https://mg.co.za/article/1997-10-01-african-healing/ |access-date=11 September 2023 |website=Mail & Guardian |language=en-ZA |publication-place=Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa}}

{{Multiple image

| total_width = 230

| image1 = Musicien soukous Awilo Longomba.jpg

| caption1 = Longomba performing at OVO Arena Wembley in 2015

| caption_align = center

| align = left

}}

On 27 October 1998, Longomba debuted his second studio album, Coupé Bibamba.{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yGYuAQAAIAAJ&q=Coup%C3%A9+Bibamba |title=Tell, Issues 9–17 |date=2004 |publisher=TELL Communications Ltd |location=Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria |pages=13 |language=en}}{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=dDIVAQAAIAAJ&q=Coup%C3%A9%20Bibamba |title=Jeune Afrique, Issues 1947–1955 |date=1998 |publisher=Jeune Afrique Media Group |location=Paris, France |pages=218 |language=fr}} The album was produced by Jip Productions and distributed in multiple formats, such as compact disc and cassette, across several countries, including France, Ivory Coast, and Kenya. Comprising ten tracks, Coupé Bibamba was arranged by Lazare Gamand and Ntoumba Minka, and includes backing and leading vocals by Jocelyne Béroard, Guy-Guy Fall, Tutu Callugi, Abby Surya, Awa Maïga, Lidjo Kwempa, Marilyn Komba, Patricia Aubou, and Alain Mpéla Yoka.{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=refxAAAAMAAJ&q=Coup%C3%A9%20Bibamba |title=Afrique magazine, Issues 209–219 |date=2003 |publisher=Jeune Afrique Media Group |location=Paris, France |pages=60 |language=fr}}{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=p5SNAAAAIAAJ&q=Coup%C3%A9%20Bibamba |title=Africa international, Issues 330–349 |date=2000 |publisher=Africa S.A. |location=Paris, France |pages=57 |language=fr}}{{Cite book |last1=Bernadac |first1=Marie-Laure |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mCBJ_lgBVY0C&q=Coup%C3%A9%20Bibamba |title=Africa remix: l'art contemporain d'un continent : exposition présentée au Centre Pompidou, Galerie 1, du 25 mai au 8 août 2005 |last2=Njami |first2=Simon |date=2005 |publisher=Éditions du centre Pompidou |isbn=978-2-84426-280-6 |editor-last=Georges Pompidou Center |location=Paris, France |pages=239 |language=fr}} Longomba played the drums, with Faustino Ngoita and Ntoumba Minka on bass guitars, and Caien Madoka, Dally Kimoko, and Japonais Maladi on lead guitars. Mavungu Malanda and Zé Luis Nascimento contributed on percussion, and Briscard Kouadio and Japonais Maladi on rhythm guitars.{{Citation |title=Awilo Longomba – Coupé Bibamba |year=1998 |work=Discogs |url=https://www.discogs.com/release/7252302-Awilo-Longomba-Coup%C3%A9-Bibamba |access-date=2023-09-11 |place=Beaverton, Oregon, United States |language=en}}

{{Multiple image

| total_width = 250

| image1 = Awilo Longomba avec des fans.jpg

| caption1 = Longomba (center) sharing a lively indoor moment with fans.

| caption_align = center

}}

The album's eponymous techno-soukous-infused-single, which featured Jocelyne Béroard, became a massive hit in Africa and Europe, as well as among diaspora communities worldwide, and remains a timeless classic in African music.{{Cite web |last=Cagnolari |first=Vladimir |date=7 November 2003 |title=Le nouveau printemps de la musique congolaise |trans-title=The new spring of Congolese music |url=https://musique.rfi.fr/musique/20031107-le-nouveau-printemps-musique-congolaise |access-date=3 July 2024 |publisher=Radio France Internationale |language=fr |publication-place=Paris, France}}{{Cite web |last=Taiwo |first=Jide |date=9 February 2017 |title=Throwback Thursday: When Awilo Longomba ruled Nigerian airwaves |url=https://thenet.ng/throwback-thursday-awilo-longomba-ruled-nigerian-airwaves/ |access-date=10 September 2023 |website=Nigerian Entertainment Today |language=en-US |publication-place=Lagos, Nigeria}} The song addresses the issue of poverty in Africa. In an interview with the Daily Nation, Longomba expressed that "Coupé Bibamba" urges young people to pursue education, attend church, and have faith in themselves to combat poverty in Africa. The incorporation of mabanga, a practice where musicians mention an individual's name during a song for a fee, was notable, with the mention directed at Robert Ogwal, also known as Rasta Rob, a prominent radio presenter in the African Great Lakes Region at the time.{{Cite web |last=Vogel |first=Christoph |date=23 August 2013 |title=Say my name: How 'shout-outs' keep Congolese musicians in the money |url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/aug/23/congo-musicians-kinshasa-rumba |access-date=2023-09-11 |website=The Guardian |language=en}} "Coupé Bibamba" success enabled Longomba to embark on an East African tour in early 1999, with sold-out performances in Tanzania, including shows in Dar es Salaam, Moshi, Arusha, and Mwanza. Due to overwhelming public demand, he extended his stay, and numerous fans were unable to gain entry to his debut show at the Diamond Jubilee Upanga in Dar es Salaam. He then performed in Kenya at the Carnivore in Nairobi before proceeding to Mamba Village in Mombasa and the Kimwa Grand Hotel in Kisumu.

{{Multiple image

| total_width = 230

| image1 = Awilo Longomba 2016.jpg

| caption1 = Longomba, smiling and cheerful, stands outside near a tree, pointing directly at the camera with a big smile in 2016.

| caption_align = center

| align = left

}}

"Coupé Bibamba" also augmented Longomba's visibility in West Africa, where it led to interpretations in various native languages, including Yoruba, Igbo and Nigerian Pidgin.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Azizi |date=2 April 2023 |title=Awilo Longomba featuring Jocelyne Béroard – "Coupé Bibamba" (1998 Congolese mega-hit record video, information, & comments)) |url=http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2023/04/awilo-longomba-featuring-jocelyne.html |access-date=11 September 2023 |website=Pancocojams}} As reported by This Day, his music gained substantial recognition in southern Nigeria and swiftly proliferated to the north, where "every verse of the Koran, Hausa children know two lines of Comment tu t'appelle".{{Cite web |last=Owope |first=Yomi |date=8 February 2002 |title=Nigeria: Music Wears No Colour in Religion |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/200202080252.html |access-date=31 July 2024 |website=This Day |publication-place=Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria}} In 2000, Longomba achieved the unprecedented feat of selling out three consecutive concerts at Lagos National Stadium. He also filled the 22,000-seat Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, and later the 30,000-seat Jolly Nyame Stadium in Jalingo, in 2003, making him the first Congolese artist to dominate Nigerian airwaves.{{Cite web |last=Iyanda |first=Olumide |date=10 January 2001 |title=Nigeria: The Makossa Madness |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/200101100261.html |access-date=31 July 2024 |website=Tempo |publication-place=Lagos, Nigeria}}{{Cite web |date=11 January 2002 |title=Nigeria: A New Wave of Concert Fever |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/200201110054.html |access-date=31 July 2024 |website=This Day |publication-place=Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria}} Longomba's collaboration with Sony Music for the World Tribute to the Funk compilation album for the song's new funk remix titled "Comment Tu T'Appelles", featuring James D-Train Williams, gained popularity among the continent's diaspora in France and the US and was also included in Edenways Records' African Dance Floor compilation album. This led to Longomba's performance at Zénith de Paris alongside Jocelyn Lorette Brown, Oliver Cheatham, Jerome Prister, Imagination and Anita Ward, all of whom were part of World Tribute to the Funk.{{Citation |title=Comment tu t'appelles (Version 2003) |date=15 October 2021 |url=https://play.anghami.com/song/1031595555 |access-date=11 September 2023 |place=Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |publisher=Play.anghami.com |language=en}}{{Citation |title=Awilo Longomba Feat."DTrain" Williams – Comment Tu T'Appelles (World Tribute to the Funk Live 2003) |date=16 September 2011 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsRZ42NHMZU |access-date=11 September 2023 |language=en}}

{{Multiple image

| total_width = 190

| image1 = Awilo Longomba en 2012.jpg

| caption1 = Longomba at the 2012 Afro Australia Music & Movie Awards.

| caption_align = center

| align = right

}}

In July 2000, Longomba released his third studio album, Kafou Kafou. Consisting of 10 tracks, Kafou Kafou was produced by Jimmy Houetinou through Jip Productions and jointly distributed by Mélodie Distribution and Section Zouk Records.{{Cite news |last=Kanka |first=Joseph |date=9 November 2001 |title=Afrique: Koras 2001 a Sun City: Werrason n°1 d'Afrique |trans-title=Africa: Koras 2001 at Sun City: Werrason n°1 in Africa |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200111090238.html |access-date=27 October 2023 |work=Le Phare |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}}{{Cite web |date=10 July 2000 |title=Awilo Longomba – Kafou Kafou |url=https://www.discogs.com/release/10766914-Awilo-Longomba-Kafou-Kafou |access-date=3 May 2024 |website=Discogs |publication-place=Beaverton, Oregon, United States}} It later earned him the Jury Special Award at the 2001 Kora Awards, which he offered to Nelson Mandela at Sun City.{{Cite news |date=20 December 2002 |title=Afrique du Sud: Face à face Mandela -Awilo en janvier 2003 |trans-title=South Africa: Face to face Mandela -Awilo in January 2003 |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200212200393.html |access-date=27 October 2023 |work=Le Phare |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}} In an interview with Foster Romanus of the Late Nite Celebrity Show, he expressed that having Mandela in attendance was a significant honour, due to his profound respect for Mandela's influential contributions to Africa.{{Cite web |last=Quaye |first=Maureen Dedei |date=28 September 2019 |title="My most prestigious award is that which I offered Nelson Mandela" – Awilo Longomba |url=https://www.etvghana.com/my-most-prestigious-award-is-that-which-i-offered-nelson-mandela-awilo-longomba/ |access-date=28 October 2023 |publisher=GTV |language=en-US |publication-place=Accra, Ghana}}

Longomba introduced his fourth studio album, Mondongo, in September 2003 through AJIP, with distribution by Mélodie Distribution. The album was supported by hit singles "Karolina", "Zumbeya", "Mupenzi", "Pinzoli", "Gladys", "Kayembe", "Mondongo", "Champion", "Mia Muliere", and "Dance Floor".{{Cite news |date=22 July 2004 |title=Cameroun: Concert : Awilo traite le dossier K-Tino |trans-title=Cameroon: Concert: Awilo handles the K-Tino file |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200407220606.html |access-date=27 October 2023 |work=Mutations Multimedia |language=French}} Mondongo was a blend of Congolese rumba, soukous, R&B, and Kompa.{{Cite web |date=23 February 2019 |title=6 Biggest Albums Released by Legend Awilo Longomba |url=https://flashugnews.com/6-biggest-albums-released-by-legend-awilo-longomba/ |access-date=11 September 2023 |website=Flash Uganda Media |language=English |publication-place=Kampala, Uganda}}{{Citation |title=Awilo Longomba – Mondongo |year=2003 |url=https://www.discogs.com/master/2185048-Awilo-Longomba-Mondongo |access-date=11 August 2023 |place=Beaverton, Oregon, United States |work=Discogs |language=en}} It achieved widespread acclaim in Africa and sold over 30,000 copies in France.{{Cite news |date=31 July 2004 |title=Sénégal: Awilo Longomba : " La musique africaine est la musique du futur " |language=French |trans-title=Senegal: Awilo Longomba: “African music is the music of the future” |work=Sudquotidien.sn |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200408020658.html |access-date=2023-10-27}} The album's lead single, "Karolina", became a staple at hall parties and is often cited as the most-played song at African events. In the song, Longomba expresses his admiration for his muse, Karolina, extolling her physical appeal comprehensively – from head to toe, front, and back.{{Cite web |last=Ahura |first=Shirley |date=14 February 2023 |title=Best African love songs: a Valentine's Day playlist |url=https://theface.com/music/best-african-love-songs-playlist-wizkid-tems-burna-boy-cassper-nyovest-olxade-romantic-songs |access-date=11 September 2023 |website=The Face |language=en-gb |publication-place=London, England}} Longomba promoted the album with sold-out shows in Harare, Bulawayo, and Chitungwiza towards the year's end, alongside Zimbabwean singer Alick Macheso.{{Cite web |date=9 January 2004 |title=Zimbabwean Musicians Take a Breather |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/200401090059.html |access-date=31 July 2024 |website=The Herald |publication-place=Harare, Zimbabwe}} To further support Mondongo, Longomba went on a tour in Cameroon in 2004, with performances at Cinéma Le Wouri, Stade Mbappé Léppé, Cinéma Abbia, and Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium.{{Cite news |last1=Gango |first1=Thiéry Gervais |last2=Ekwè |first2=Dorine |date=9 August 2004 |title=Cameroun: Un beau spectacle dissout faute de sous : au concert d'Awilo, il n'y a pas eu de K-Tino au palais des Congrès et point de show à l'Omnisport |trans-title=Cameroon: A beautiful show dissolved for lack of money: at the Awilo concert, there was no K-Tino at the Palais des Congrès and no show at the Omnisport |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200408091109.html |access-date=27 October 2023 |work=Mutations Multimedia |language=French}} In November that year, Longomba received a nomination for "Karolina" at the 2004 Kora Awards.{{Cite news |last=Kanka |first=Joseph |date=12 November 2004 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Kora 2004: Awilo Longomba et Djuna Mumbafu nominés |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Kora 2004: Awilo Longomba and Djuna Mumbafu nominated |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200411120348.html |access-date=27 October 2023 |work=Le Phare |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}}

{{Multiple image

| total_width = 210

| image1 = Awilo Longomba 2015 awards.jpg

| caption1 = Longomba, wearing a black tank top with a colourful holographic pattern and a large pendant necklace, stands with a friend beneath ceiling spotlights.

| caption_align = center

}}

In March 2005, Longomba took the stage at the Africa Live 2005 concert, a malaria-fighting event hosted at the Iba-Mar-Diop Stadium, where he performed in front of 40,000 people with other co-performers including Youssou N'Dour, Orchestra Baobab, Tinariwen, Didier Awadi, Corneille, Salif Keita, Rokia Traoré, Manu Dibango, and Seun Kuti.{{Cite news |last=Gherab |first=Hassan |date=15 March 2005 |title=Sénégal: Africa Live pour faire reculer le paludisme : De nombreuses stars africaines à Dakar |trans-title=Senegal: Africa Live to reduce malaria: Many African stars in Dakar |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200503150402.html |access-date=27 October 2023 |work=La Tribune |language=French}} The event was organised by Youssou N'Dour as part of the Roll Back Malaria Partnership (RBM), an initiative launched in 1998 by the World Health Organization, United Nations Development Programme, UNICEF, and the World Bank. The following month, he launched a US tour with his backing band, including guitarist Caien Madoka, vocalist Omba Petit Bokul, and drummer Simolo Katondi, with stops in New York City, Washington D.C., Boston, Dallas, and Houston.{{Cite web |date=9 April 2005 |title=Awilo Longomba: Live Concert Report from New York |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080101094243/http://www.africasounds.com/awilo.htm |access-date=8 May 2025 |website=Africa Sounds}} Among their prominent performances was a notable appearance at New York's Satalla World Music venue, delivering two sets to a full house on 1 April. The performance featured several of his popular tracks, including "Karolina", and included a special appearance by bassist Ngouma Lokito, co-founder of Soukous Stars, who joined the band to play "Coupé Bibamba". On 16 April, he performed at the French venue, C'est La Vie club in Atlanta.{{Cite web |last=Kiawu |first=Hassan |date=13 April 2005 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Awilo to Rock Atlanta |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/200504130203.html |access-date=31 July 2024 |website=Liberian Observer |publication-place=Monrovia, Liberia}}

In September 2005, Longomba held three concerts in Windhoek, Swakopmund, and Oshakati.{{Cite web |last=Musariri |first=Confidence |date=20 May 2005 |title=Namibia: Music Lovers: Watch Out for Awilo Longomba |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/200505200989.html |access-date=31 July 2024 |website=New Era |publication-place=Windhoek, Namibia}} In July next year, Longomba performed in Libreville as part of the Amissa Bongo Foundation and Iriscom International's second edition of the Nuit de la Musique.{{Cite news |date=10 July 2006 |title=Gabon: Plusieurs musiciens internationaux en concert samedi à Libreville |trans-title=Gabon: Several international musicians in concert Saturday in Libreville |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200607110413.html |access-date=27 October 2023 |work=Gabonews |language=French}} He also played at the Sumbe International Music Festival, colloquially called "FestiSumbe", in Sumbe in September 2006.{{Cite news |date=4 September 2006 |title=Angola: Beto Dias, Manecas Costa et Awilo Longomba invités au FestiSumbe |trans-title=Angola: Beto Dias, Manecas Costa and Awilo Longomba invited to FestiSumbe |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200609050288.html |access-date=28 October 2023 |publisher=Angola Press News Agency |location=Luanda, Angola |language=French}} In 2007, Longomba held two consecutive sold-out concerts at the Hotel Ivoire in Cocody and the Yopougon Sports Complex in Yopougon.{{Cite news |date=28 April 2007 |title=Cote d'Ivoire: Hôtel Ivoire de Cocody et Complexe sportif de Yopougon – Awilo va s'éclater en deux parties |trans-title=Ivory Coast: Hotel Ivoire in Cocody and Yopougon Sports Complex – Awilo will have fun in two parts |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200704300964.html |access-date=28 October 2023 |work=La Voie |language=French}}{{Cite news |last=Rabé |first=Alexis |date=7 May 2007 |title=Cote d'Ivoire: Concert live – Awilo Longomba fait l'essentiel |trans-title=Ivory Coast: Live concert – Awilo Longomba does the essentials |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200705071431.html |access-date=28 October 2023 |work=La Voie |language=French}} He followed this up with a Labor Day concert in Antananarivo in 2008, where he was joined by about twenty other artists.{{Cite news |last=Randrianja |first=Juliano |date=7 January 2008 |title=Madagascar: Le roi du techno-soukous en concert |trans-title=Madagascar: The king of techno-soukous in concert |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200801071432.html |access-date=28 October 2023 |work=L'Express de Madagascar |language=French}}{{Cite news |last=Rabe |first=Patrice |date=2 April 2008 |title=Madagascar: Evénement – Awilo, le roi du "techno soukouss", à Tana le 4 mai |trans-title=Madagascar: Event – Awilo, the king of "techno soukouss", in Tana on May 4 |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200804020747.html |access-date=28 October 2023 |work=Midi Madagasikara |location=Antananarivo, Madagascar |language=fr}}{{Cite news |last=Randrianja |first=Juliano |date=11 April 2008 |title=Madagascar: Le roi du techno soukouss à Mada |trans-title=Madagascar: The king of techno soukouss in Mada |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200804101237.html |access-date=28 October 2023 |work=L'Express de Madagascar |location=Antananarivo, Madagascar |language=French}}

In August 2008, Longomba published his fifth studio album Superman, which contained standout tracks like "Super Man", "Torticolis", "Les Jaloux", "Malala", "Maze", "Meu Amor", "Banana", "La Go Là", "Baby", "J'Ai Envie de Toi", "BK", and "Banana Remix".{{Cite web |date=1 August 2008 |title=Awilo Longomba |url=https://www.radiookapi.net/emissions-2/lartiste/2008/08/01/awilo-longomba |access-date=28 October 2023 |website=Radio Okapi |language=fr}}{{Cite web |date=23 February 2019 |title=6 Biggest Albums Released by Legend Awilo Longomba |url=https://flashugnews.com/6-biggest-albums-released-by-legend-awilo-longomba/ |access-date=28 October 2023 |website=Flash Uganda Media |publication-place=Kampala, Uganda}}{{Citation |title=Awilo Longomba – Super Man |date=30 June 2008 |work=Discogs |url=https://www.discogs.com/release/10766867-Awilo-Longomba-Super-Man |access-date=28 October 2023 |place=Beaverton, Oregon, United States |language=en}} Barbara Kanam also made a guest appearance on Superman. He subsequently took the stage at Zénith de Paris on 27 December 2009, to promote Superman.{{Cite news |last=Enyimo |first=Martin |date=24 November 2009 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Awilo Longomba et Fally Ipupa à l'affiche au Zénith de Paris |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Awilo Longomba and Fally Ipupa on display at the Zénith de Paris |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200911240682.html |access-date=13 October 2023 |work=Le Potentiel |language=French |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} He later appeared in Antananarivo to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Malagasy Independence on 26 June 2010.{{Cite news |last=Rivelo |first=Hernan |date=10 June 2010 |title=Madagascar: Cinquantenaire de l'Indépendance – Le groupe Kassav en tête d'affiche des invités |trans-title=Madagascar: Fiftieth Anniversary of Independence – The Kassav group headlines the guests |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201006100430.html |access-date=28 October 2023 |work=L'Express de Madagascar |language=fr}}

{{Multiple image

| total_width = 202

| image1 = Angelique Kidjo et Awilo Longomba.jpg

| caption1 = Longomba and Angélique Kidjo in March 2017

| caption_align = center

| align = left

}}

On 5 May 2014, in celebration of his birthday, Longomba debuted an audio preview of his new single, "Bundele", which was co-produced by London-based BA Nuisance and Nigerian producer TeeBeeO.{{Cite web |last=O |first=Ovie |date=5 May 2014 |title=EXCLUSIVE: Awilo Longomba – Bundelele |url=https://notjustok.com/songs/exclusive-awilo-longomba-bundelele/ |access-date=25 May 2024 |website=NotJustOk |language=en-US}} Prior to the premiere of the "Bundele" music video on 29 July 2014, Longomba collaborated with the Nigerian duo P-Square on the track "Enemy Solo".{{Cite web |last=Diasso |first=Alain |date=10 October 2015 |title=Tendance musicale: la guerre du " générique " fait rage |trans-title=Musical trend: the "generic" war rages on |url=https://www.adiac-congo.com/content/tendance-musicale-la-guerre-du-generique-fait-rage-39682 |access-date=19 December 2023 |website=Adiac-congo.com |language=fr |publication-place=Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |date=29 May 2015 |title=Enemy Solo, le battle entre Awilo Longomba et P-Square |trans-title=Enemy Solo, battle at the top between Awilo Longomba and P-Square |url=https://djolo.net/enemy-solo-battle-au-sommet-entre-awilo-longomba-et-p-square/ |access-date=29 June 2024 |website=Djolo.net |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |last=S |first=Deji |date=29 May 2015 |title=New Video: PSquare feat. Awilo Logomba – Enemy Solo |url=https://www.bellanaija.com/2015/05/new-video-psquare-feat-awilo-logomba-enemy-solo/ |access-date=9 May 2025 |website=BellaNaija |language=en-US |publication-place=Lagos, Nigeria}} He then made a guest appearance on Nathalie Makoma's single "Eyi Mabe".{{Cite web |date=5 January 2023 |title=Gospel: 9 ans après les Makoma reviennent sur scène sans leur cadette Nathalie |trans-title=Gospel: 9 years later the Makoma return to the stage without their youngest Nathalie |url=https://acp.cd/culture/gospel-9-ans-apres-les-makoma-reviennent-sur-scene-sans-leur-cadette-nathalie/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=ACP |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} On 23 January 2017, he premiered the single "Rihanna", featuring Yemi Alade,{{Cite web |last=Abiola |date=23 January 2017 |title=Entertainment: Music: 'Rihanna' ft Yemi Alade [Video] |url=https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/awilo-longomba-rihanna-ft-yemi-alade-video/vvh2ek5 |access-date=19 December 2023 |website=Pulse Nigeria |language=en |publication-place=Lagos, Nigeria}}{{Cite web |last=Uyeh |first=Patricia |date=19 January 2017 |title=Congolese superstar, Awilo Longomba features Nigerian singer, Yemi Alade on new track "Rihanna" |url=https://allure.vanguardngr.com/2017/01/congolese-superstar-awilo-longomba-features-nigerian-singer-yemi-alade-new-track-rihanna/ |access-date=19 December 2023 |website=Allure.vanguardngr.com |language=fr |publication-place=Lagos, Nigeria}} followed by the Afrobeat-infused single "Esopi Yo", which included a guest appearance by Tiwa Savage.{{Cite web |date=19 July 2017 |title=Découvrez le clip "Esopi yo" de Awilo Longomba featuring Tiwa Savage |trans-title=Discover the music video "Esopi Yo" by Awilo Longomba featuring Tiwa Savage |url=https://mbote.cd/celebrites/decouvrez-clip-esopi-yo-de-awilo-longomba-featuring-tiwa-savage/7564/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} On 25 December 2018, Longomba was featured on BM's remix of "Rosalina", which sparked a global dance trend on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, with professional and amateur dancers showcasing their best moves.{{Cite web |date=4 September 2018 |title=GetMziki: BM Feat Awilo Longamba- Rosalina (Remix) |url=https://www.getmziki.com/bm-feat-awilo-longamba-rosalina-remix/ |access-date=15 September 2023 |website=Getmziki.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Tabalia |first=Jedidah |date=12 November 2019 |title=South African dance moves that have made it internationally |url=https://briefly.co.za/42283-south-african-dance-moves-top-african-dance-moves-2018-2019.html |access-date=15 September 2023 |website=Briefly |language=en}}{{Citation |title=BM shows us how to do Rosalina Challenge – BBC What's New? |date=15 October 2018 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se0h-ib8sYI |access-date=15 September 2023 |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Gachanja |first=Nelly |date=13 January 2019 |title=Top 10 African Dance Styles of 2018 - Africa.com |url=https://www.africa.com/top-10-african-dance-styles/ |access-date=15 September 2023 |website=Africa.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=13 September 2018 |title=5 chansons qui vous feront danser en septembre |trans-title=5 songs that will make you dance in September |url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/node/36104 |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Music in Africa |language=en}} He later held two consecutive concerts in Uganda: one at the Kampala Serena Hotel on 5 April 2019, and another at Greenlight Stadium in Arua on 7 April,{{Cite web |last=Mwesigwa |first=Solomon |date=26 March 2019 |title=Awilo Longomba to perform at Greenlight Stadium in Onduparaka |url=https://mbu.ug/2019/03/26/awilo-longomba-to-perform-at-greenlight-stadium-in-onduparaka/ |access-date=10 May 2025 |website=MBU |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Ruby |first=Josh |date=7 April 2019 |title=Why Cindy was replaced with Chameleone at Awilo Longomba's concert |url=https://mbu.ug/2019/04/07/why-cindy-was-replaced-with-chameleone-at-awilo-longombas-concert/ |access-date=10 May 2025 |website=MBU |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Ruby |first=Josh |date=8 April 2019 |title=Awilo Longomba shuts down Arua's Greenlight Stadium |url=https://mbu.ug/2019/04/08/awilo-longomba-shuts-down-aruas-greenlight-stadium/ |access-date=10 May 2025 |website=MBU |language=en-US}} where he brought Robinio Mundibu on stage, providing Robinio a platform to promote his Extended play (EP) Chiffre 9.{{Cite web |date=7 April 2019 |title=Awilo Longomba invité sur scène Robinio Mundibu lors de son concert à Kampala |trans-title=Awilo Longomba invited Robinio Mundibu on stage during his concert in Kampala |url=https://mbote.cd/buzz/awilo-longomba-invite-sur-scene-robinio-mundibu-lors-de-son-concert-a-kampala/16916/ |access-date=1 December 2023 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} He then unveiled the Moe Musa–directed music video for "Canon", a Congolese rumba and Afrobeats fusion, on 15 April.{{Cite web |last=Okhide |first=Peter |date=16 April 2019 |title=Awilo Longomba – Canon (Official Video) |url=https://notjustok.com/songs/videos/video-awilo-longomba-canon/ |access-date=25 May 2024 |website=NotjustOk |language=en-US}} On 23 April 2021, Longomba was featured on Harmonize's single "Attitude", which rapidly amassed three million YouTube views in 24 hours.{{Cite web |last=Mpiutu |first=Miguel Jegou |date=23 April 2021 |title=Découvrez la chanson "Attitude" de Harmonize en featuring avec Awilo Longomba et H Baba |trans-title=Discover the song "Attitude" by Harmonize featuring Awilo Longomba and H Baba |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/decouvrez-la-chanson-attitude-de-harmonize-en-featuring-avec-awilo-longomba-et-h-baba/63017/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |date=25 April 2021 |title=Le clip "Attitude" de Harmonize feat Awilo Longomba et H Baba fait plus de 3 millions des vues en 24 h |trans-title=The music video "Attitude" by Harmonize featuring Awilo Longomba and H Baba has more than 3 million views in 24 hours |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/le-clip-attitude-de-harmonize-feat-awilo-longomba-et-h-baba-fait-plus-de-3-millions-des-vues-en-24-h/63111/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} He then appeared on Angel Mary Kato's single "Tanzania", a fusion of Bongo Flava and soukous.{{Cite web |last=Mpiutu |first=Miguel Jegou |date=10 May 2021 |title=Angel Mary Kato annonce la sortie de sa chanson "Tanzania" en featuring avec Awilo Longomba |trans-title=Angel Mary Kato announces the release of her song "Tanzania" featuring Awilo Longomba |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/angel-mary-kato-annonce-la-sortie-de-sa-chanson-tanzania-en-featuring-avec-awilo-longomba/63765/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}

{{Multiple image

| total_width = 205

| image1 = Awilo Longomba 2018.jpg

| caption1 = Longomba at the 2018 Born in Africa Festival

| caption_align = center

| align = right

}}

On 29 October 2022, Longomba performed at the Fally Ipupa concert at the Stade des Martyrs de la Pentecôte.{{Cite web |date=30 October 2022 |title=Gaz Mawete et Awilo Longomba étaient les invités au concert de Fally Ipupa au Stade des Martyrs |trans-title=Gaz Mawete and Awilo Longomba were guests at the Fally Ipupa concert at the Stade des Martyrs |url=https://mbote.cd/evenements/gaz-mawete-et-awilo-longomba-eetaient-les-invites-au-concert-de-fally-ipupa-au-stade-des-martyrs/120510/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} In November 2022, Longomba collaborated with Werrason, Reddy Amisi, Rebo Tchulo, Jeannot Bombenga, Héritier Watanabe, M'bilia Bel, Sista Becky, Poison Mobutu, Mianda Kabamba and Samarino on "Allons Tous Nous Faire Enrôler", a song composed for CENI's campaign to raise awareness among the population about the identification and enrolment operation for the 2023 Democratic Republic of the Congo general election.{{Cite web |date=25 November 2022 |title=Enrôlement: Les artistes congolais mobilisent la population |trans-title=Enrollment: Congolese artists mobilize the population |url=https://acp.cd/culture/enrolement-les-artistes-congolais-mobilisent-la-population/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=ACP |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |date=18 November 2022 |title=Awilo Longomba, Werrason, Mbilia Bel et plusieurs autres artistes en tournage d'une chanson de sensibilisation |trans-title=Awilo Longomba, Werrason, Mbilia Bel and several other artists filming an awareness song |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/awilo-llongomba-werrason-mbilia-bel-et-plusieurs-autres-artistes-en-tournage-dune-chanson-de-sensibilisation/121789/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} On 31 December 2022, Longomba guest-performed on Inoss'B's Afrocongo-style single "Maboko Milayi", which garnered two million views on YouTube within 13 days.{{Cite web |last=Musafiri |first=Gabriel |date=31 December 2022 |title=Musique: Découvrez"Maboko Milayi", le nouveau clip d'Innoss'B feat Awilo Longomba (vidéo) |trans-title=Music: Discover "Maboko Milayi", the new clip from Innoss'B feat Awilo Longomba (video) |url=https://iwebrdc.com/musique-decouvrezmaboko-milayi-le-nouveau-clip-dinnossb-feat-awilo-longombavideo/ |access-date=29 March 2024 |website=Iwebrdc.com |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |date=31 December 2022 |title=Innoss'B et Awilo Longomba sont de retour avec "Maboko Milayi" |trans-title=Innoss'B and Awilo Longomba are back with "Maboko Milayi" |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/innossb-et-awilo-longomba-sont-de-retour-avec-maboko-milayi/124584/ |access-date=29 March 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |date=13 January 2023 |title=Innoss'B réalise 2 millions des vues sur Youtube avec "Maboko milayi" ft Awilo Longomba |trans-title=Innoss'B achieves 2 million views on Youtube with "Maboko milayi" ft Awilo Longomba |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/innossb-rrealise-2-millions-des-vues-sur-youtube-avec-maboko-milayi-ft-awilo-longomba/125327/ |access-date=29 March 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |date=30 October 2023 |title=Awilo Longomba s'annonce avec ‘"Made in Kongo’", dernier album de sa carrière |trans-title=Awilo Longomba announces himself with Made in Kongo, the last album of his career |url=https://acp.cd/culture/awilo-longomba-sannonce-avec-made-in-kongo-dernier-album-de-sa-carriere/ |access-date=16 December 2024 |website=ACP |language=fr-FR}} In March 2023, Longomba was appointed as a coach for the first season of the Voice Africa, a version of the global franchise tailored for the Anglophone African audience, offering a contrast to the Voice Afrique Francophone.{{Cite web |date=30 March 2023 |title=Awilo Longomba sera l'un des coachs de la saison 1 de The Voice Africa |trans-title=Awilo Longomba will be one of the coaches of season 1 of The Voice Africa |url=https://mbote.cd/buzz/aawilo-longomba-sera-lun-des-coachs-de-la-saison-1-de-the-voice-africa/130593/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} On 5 August, he shared the stage with Afrigo Band during the Legends of Sound concert held at the Sheraton Gardens of the Sheraton Kampala Hotel.{{Cite web |last=Ruby |first=Josh |date=29 May 2023 |title=Awilo Longomba, Afrigo Band to share stage in August |url=https://mbu.ug/2023/05/29/awilo-longomba-afrigo-band-to-share-stage-in-august/ |access-date=10 May 2025 |website=MBU |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Ruby |first=Josh |date=2 August 2023 |title=Awilo Longomba in Uganda for Legends of Sound concert |url=https://mbu.ug/2023/08/02/awilo-longomba-in-uganda-for-legends-of-sound-concert/ |access-date=10 May 2025 |website=MBU |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Ruby |first=Josh |date=6 August 2023 |title=Afrigo Band Marks 48 Years, Awilo Longomba Impresses (PHOTOS) |url=https://mbu.ug/2023/08/06/afrigo-band-marks-48-years-awilo-longomba-impresses-photos/ |access-date=10 May 2025 |website=MBU |language=en-US}} He later joined Innoss'B on stage during the "Umoja" humanitarian concert at the La Madeleine concert hall in Brussels in December of that year, performing alongside Yemi Alade and Rebo Tchulo.{{Cite web |date=2 December 2023 |title=Yemi Alade, Awilo Longomba et Rebo Tchulo, les deux invités d'Innoss'B à La Madeleine |trans-title=Yemi Alade, Awilo Longomba and Rebo Tchulo, the two guests of Innoss'B at La Madeleine |url=https://mbote.cd/buzz/yemi-alade-awilo-longomba-et-rebo-tchulo-les-deux-invites-dinnossb-a-la-madeleine/150338/ |access-date=9 May 2024 |website=Mbote.cd |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} On 6 July 2024, Longomba headlined a concert at Woodbine Park in Toronto as part of the city's three-day annual AfroFest.{{Cite web |last=Marcelo |first=Breanna |date=8 July 2024 |title='It was very traumatic,' AfroFest Toronto ends early Saturday night after pellet gun shooting causes massive stampede |url=https://nowtoronto.com/news/it-was-very-traumatic-afrofest-toronto-ends-early-saturday-night-after-pellet-gun-shooting-causes-massive-stampede/ |access-date=18 July 2024 |website=NOW Toronto |language=en-CA |publication-place=Toronto, Ontario, Canada}}{{Cite web |last=Shackleton |first=Al |date=5 July 2024 |title=Afrofest celebrations set for Woodbine Park on July 5, 6 and 7 |url=https://beachmetro.com/2024/07/05/afrofest-celebrations-set-for-woodbine-park-on-july-5-6-and-7/ |access-date=18 July 2024 |website=Beach Metro Community News |language=en-US |publication-place=Toronto, Ontario, Canada}} However, as the festival neared its ending during Longomba's set, an incident involving teenage boys discharging pellet guns incited pandemonium among the crowd, which abruptly terminated the event. On 10 August, he appeared at the Antilliaanse Feesten Festival in Hoogstraten, during the festival's three-day night performance series.{{Cite web |date=October 2024 |title=I Have Huge Respect For My Fans And Audiences |url=https://africawebtv.nl/i-have-huge-respect-for-my-fans-and-audiences-awilo-longomba/ |access-date=16 October 2024 |website=Africawebtv |language=en-US}} He went on to perform alongside Ugandan rapper Keko at Afro Explosion Uganda on 30 August at Eripak Beach in Arua.{{Cite web |last=Ruby |first=Josh |date=3 July 2024 |title=Ugandan rapper Keko to perform alongside Awilo Longomba in Arua this August |url=https://mbu.ug/2024/07/03/ugandan-rapper-keko-awilo-longomba/ |access-date=10 May 2025 |website=MBU |language=en-US}} On 15 November, Longomba released the single "Mbongo Na Ngai Moko", a fusion of ndombolo and soukous, featuring Innoss'B.{{Cite web |date=16 November 2024 |title=Découvrez "Mbongo na ngai" le nouveau clip de Awilo Longomba feat Innoss'B |trans-title=Discover "Mbongo na ngai" the new music video by Awilo Longomba feat Innoss'B |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/decouvrez-mbongo-na-ngai-le-nouveau-clip-de-awilo-longomba-feat-innossb/171304/ |access-date=8 January 2025 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}

Longomba is among the most sought-after Congolese artists in Africa and Europe. Jide Taiwo, writing for Nigerian Entertainment Today, opined that Longomba "inspired a new crop of Nigerian entertainers who made several spoofs of his songs and thus began their own careers". Longomba's musical style has notably influenced several Nigerian musicians, including Funmi Adams, known for her song "Yaro" performed in Hausa in the late 1980s, and Julius Agwu, whose tracks such as "Okombo", "Chop Bisikit", "Bendown Sellect", and "I Buy Kwilikwili" all draw from Longomba's musical style.{{Cite web |last=Njoku |first=Benjamin |date=3 August 2014 |title=Why I disappeared from music scene — Awilo Longomba |url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/08/disappeared-music-scene-awilo-longomba/ |access-date=24 May 2024 |website=Vanguardngr.com |publication-place=Lagos, Nigeria}} Nigerian singer-songwriter Burna Boy credited Longomba as a significant source of inspiration during his formative years in a guest appearance on Clique TV.{{Cite web |last=Mpiutu |first=Miguel Jegou |date=14 December 2021 |title=Burna Boy reconnaît Awilo Longomba comme l'un des héros musicaux de son enfance |trans-title=Burna Boy recognizes Awilo Longomba as one of his childhood musical heroes |url=https://mbote.cd/celebrites/burna-boy-reconnait-awilo-longomba-comme-lun-des-heros-musicaux-de-son-enfance/74650/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}

In February 2023, Nigerian singer Ayra Starr released "Sability", a techno-soukous-inspired single that sampled Longomba's "Coupé Bibamba".{{Cite web |last=Ngema |first=Zee |title=Ayra Starr Channels Her Inner E-Girl in New Single 'Sability' – Okayplayer |url=https://www.okayafrica.com/ayra-starr-sability-nigeria-new/ |access-date=28 October 2023 |website=OkayAfrica |language=en}} This release garnered praise from Tanzanian singer Harmonize, who commended the song's homage to Longomba, expressing admiration for his musical impact and stating, "I want to be like Awilo Longomba".{{Cite web |date=18 March 2023 |title=Harmonize: "Je veux être comme Awilo Longomba" |trans-title=Harmonize: "I want to be like Awilo Longomba" |url=https://mbote.cd/buzz/harmonize-je-veux-etre-comme-awilo-longomba/129485/ |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}

• Moto Pamba (1995)
• Coupe Bibamba (1999)
• Kafou Kafou (2001)
• Mondongo (2003)
• Super-Man (2008)

• "Moto Pamba"
• "Coupé Bibamba" (featuring Jocelyne Béroard)
• "Gaté Le Coin"
• "Manon"
• "Karolina"
• "Champion"
• "Mondongo"
• "Fidele"
• "Bundele"

{{Reflist}}

• https://web.archive.org/web/20110714042528/http://www.martinsinterculture.com/irawma-winners.html
• https://web.archive.org/web/20061109045153/http://www.afrodicia.com/artist/awilo/index.html
• http://www.sternsmusic.com/discography/436 {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100512030056/http://www.sternsmusic.com/discography/436 |date=12 May 2010 }}
• https://web.archive.org/web/20080101094243/http://www.africasounds.com/awilo.htm
• https://web.archive.org/web/20100219074713/http://www.topvisages.net/entrevue/14-02-10.php
• http://myspace.com/awilolongombaofficiel

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Longomba, Awilo}}

Category:21st-century Democratic Republic of the Congo male singers

Category:Living people

Category:1962 births

Category:20th-century Democratic Republic of the Congo male singers

Category:Musicians from Kinshasa

Category:French-language singers of the Democratic Republic of the Congo