Barbara Kanam

Barbara Kanam Mutund was born on 27 September 1973 in Bukavu, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), into an upper-middle-class family as one of twelve children.{{Cite web |title=Barbara Kanam, La Diva Congolaise - CongoleseMusic.com |url=https://www.congolesemusic.com/person/barbara-kanam/ |access-date=23 September 2021 |website=Congolese Music}}{{Cite web |last=Foko |first=Michel Tagne |date=12 December 2013 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Barbara Kanam, "La diva congolaise", se confie |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Barbara Kanam, "The Congolese diva", confides |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201312120517.html |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Camer.be/ |language=Fr}} Her father, a Lunda executive, worked as the General Manager of the Sheraton Hotel in Lubumbashi, while her mother hailed from the Bemba ethnic group.{{Cite web |last=Diala |first=Jordache |date=29 September 2016 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Née le 27 septembre 1973 - A 43 ans d'âge, Barbara Kanam fait la fierté de l'Afrique! |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Born September 27, 1973 - At 43 years old, Barbara Kanam is the pride of Africa! |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201609290882.html |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Laprosperiteonline.net/ |language=Fr |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |title=MusicMe: Biographie de Barbara Kanam |url=https://www.musicme.com/#/Barbara-Kanam/biographie/ |access-date=1 November 2023 |website=musicMe |language=French |publication-place=Boulogne-billancourt, Île-de-France, France}} After completing her secondary studies at the Belgian private school of Kolwezi, she went to study international business at the University of Pretoria in South Africa in 1991.{{Cite web |last=Kongo |first=Robert |date=6 August 2014 |title=Barbara Kanam: "C'est avec plaisir et passion que je chante" |trans-title=Barbara Kanam: "It is with pleasure and passion that I sing" |url=https://www.congoforum.be/fr/2014/08/barbara-kanam-cest-avec-plaisir-et-passion-que-je-chante/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Le Potentiel |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |last=Kongo |first=Robert |date=6 August 2014 |title=Interview: Barbara Kanam, "C'est avec plaisir et passion que je chante" |trans-title=Interview: Barbara Kanam, "It is with pleasure and passion that I sing" |url=https://www.universrumbacongolaise.com/interviews/barbara-kanam-chante-avec-plaisir-passion/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Universrumbacongolaise.com |publisher=Le Potentiel |language=fr-FR}} While in Pretoria, she became involved in the local evangelical church community, which provided her first formal exposure to music. Attending church regularly, she seized the attention of the congregation and the pastor, who invited her to direct and perform solos in the church choir. In an interview with Le Potentiel, Kanam stated that "It was through this choir that I realized that I had a gift for music". Her burgeoning interest in music compelled her to abandon her international business studies, opting instead for theological and musical education at Rhema Bible School and the Psalmody Academy in Johannesburg. However, due to her father's job loss, the family's financial situation became precarious, making it challenging for Kanam to afford her school fees. She thus sought employment to support her family while managing to complete her university year. As a form of celebration for her academic achievement, she purchased a guitar as a self-congratulatory gift, which she taught herself to play and began composing her music.

When she returned to Lubumbashi during academic recess, she confided her musical aspirations to her father, who vehemently disapproved. Discontent with her choice, he asserted that she should no longer return to Pretoria. Concerned about the potential challenges she might face at the University of Lubumbashi, Kanam consented to take a sabbatical year. During this time in Lubumbashi, she found work in the import-export sector to assist her family. In the early 1990s, Kanam began to perform in Central Africa. In 1993, she developed an acoustic setlist for a "One Woman Acoustic Show" and traveled across the region, staging performances in major cities such as Kinshasa and Lubumbashi.

In 1995, her family relocated to Abidjan, Ivory Coast, where she became a soloist in her church choir, La Réconciliation de Mel Eg Théodore.{{Cite web |last=Lavaine |first=Bertrand |date=2015-10-29 |title=Barbara Kanam, une touche de glamour au Congo |trans-title=Barbara Kanam, a touch of glamor in Congo |url=https://musique.rfi.fr/actu-musique/musique-africaine/album/20151029-barbara-kanam-zawadi |access-date=2023-11-04 |website=RFI Musique |language=fr}} In 1977, while performing at the Hôtel Ivoire, she was spotted by Alpha Blondy and his manager, Koné Dodo.{{Cite web |last1=Ramazani |last2=Mavambu |last3=Ngusu |date=11 July 2023 |title=Barbara Kanam: Zoom sur une femme battante et independante au FPC |trans-title=Barbara Kanam: Focus on a fighter and independent woman at the FPC |url=https://congoprofond.net/barbara-kanam-zoom-sur-une-femme-battante-et-independante-au-fpc/ |access-date=1 November 2023 |website=Congoprofond.net |language=fr-FR}} In an interview with Le Potentiel, Kanam stated that Koné Dodo exhorted her to pursue a music career. Although they wanted to sign her, Kanam's parents insisted she complete her studies before pursuing a music career. Later that year, she eventually earned her BTS International Commerce from the Université Tertiaire et Technologique in Abidjan.

In 1999, Kanam released her debut studio album, Mokili, which was produced by Koné Dodo. The album featured the gospel-influenced single "Mokili Ekoleka" and earned her a Kora Award nomination, where she made her television debut, presenting her album at the awards ceremony. In 2000, Kanam took a break from performing and moved to Paris due to her pregnancy. After a two-year hiatus, she resumed her music career with the release of her second studio album, Téti, on 1 January 2003.{{Cite news |last=Doulkoum |first=Romaric |date=7 May 2003 |title=Burkina Faso: Barbara Kanam veut faire danser les Burkinabè |trans-title=Burkina Faso: Barbara Kanam wants to make the Burkinabè dance |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200305070363.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=Quotidien Sidwaya |language=French |publication-place=Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso}} The record, consisting of 12 tracks, was co-produced by Kiki Productions and Nouvelle JAT Music, Koné Dodo's label. Téti achieved remarkable success in the Burkinabè market, particularly in Ouagadougou, where it received airplay on Radio Télévision du Burkina for five months. The breakout single, "Bibi Madeleine: L'argent appelle l'argent", paid homage to her grandmother and sampled Pamelo Mounk'a's 1985 hit "L'argent appelle l'argent". The song debuted in two versions—one featuring Edgar Yonkeu and another with Awilo Longomba. In April 2003, Kanam was nominated during the 3rd edition of Kundé d'Or and subsequently performed at the Palais des Sports de Ouaga 2000 to promote Téti.{{Cite news |last=Traoré |first=Kader |date=4 May 2003 |title=Burkina Faso: Kundé 2003: the national golden Gandaogo |trans-title=Burkina Faso: Kundé 2003: the national golden Gandaogo |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200305050428.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=lobservateur.bf/ |language=French}} Additionally, she graced the stage at the Culture Palace of Abidjan, sharing the platform with Aicha Koné, Tiane, Mawa Traoré, Joelle Séka, Tigress Sidonie, and Chantal Taïba to further support Téti.{{Cite news |last=Coulibaly |first=Rémi |date=12 May 2003 |title=Cote d'Ivoire: Spectacle: un show pour un public chaud |trans-title=Ivory Coast: Show: a show for a hot audience |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200305130587.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=Fraternité Matin |location=Abidjan, Ivory Coast |language=fr}} She returned to Burkina Faso to partake in the Wuïré festival from 29 October to 1 November in the Imasgo Department.{{Cite news |last=Zoma |first=Cyrille |date=2 October 2003 |title=Burkina Faso: Nouvelles du Boulkiemdé : bientôt un festival Wuïré à Imasgo |trans-title=Burkina Faso: News from Boulkiemdé: soon a Wuïré festival in Imasgo |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200310030008.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=lobservateur.bf/ |language=fr}}

Kanam's success with Téti earned her the Kora Award for Most Promising African Female Artist on 6 December 2003 at the Sandton Convention Center in Sandton.{{Cite web |last=Romero |first=Angel |date=7 December 2003 |title=2003 Kora All African Music Awards, Winners Announced |url=https://worldmusiccentral.org/2003/12/07/2003-kora-all-african-music-awards-winners-announced/ |access-date=3 November 2023 |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |last=Gango |first=Thiéry Gervais |date=10 December 2003 |title=Cameroun: Koras 2003: deux soleils camerounais à Sun City |trans-title=Cameroon: Koras 2003: two Cameroonian suns at Sun City |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200312100732.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=Mutations Multimedia |language=French}} On 30 April 2004, Kanam was honored with the Best Female of Central Africa at Kunde d'Or in Burkina Faso.{{Cite news |last=Zoungrana |first=Zowenmanogo Dieudonné |date=4 May 2004 |title=Burkina Faso: Kundé 2004 : les 25 millions d'Amity récompensés |trans-title=Burkina Faso: Kundé 2004: the 25 million Amity rewarded |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200405040342.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=lobservateur.bf/ |language=French}} She went on to perform at the Culture Palace in Abidjan, joining Coumba Gawlo, Chantal Taïba, and Tigress Sidonie.{{Cite news |last=Sakré |first=Geoffroy |date=9 July 2004 |title=Cote d'Ivoire: Concert "Afrikimousso" au Palais de la Culture ce soir : La rencontre des voix féminines africaines |trans-title=Ivory Coast: "Afrikimousso" concert at the Palais de la Culture this evening: The meeting of African female voices |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200407090704.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=Notre Voie |language=fr |publication-place=Abidjan, Ivory Coast}}{{Cite news |last=Sakré |first=Geoffroy |date=14 July 2004 |title=Cote d'Ivoire: Concert Afrikimousso au Palais de la Culture vendredi dernier : Coumba Gawlo, Taïba, Tigresse Sidonie ont fait le show |trans-title=Ivory Coast: Afrikimousso Concert at the Palais de la Culture last Friday: Coumba Gawlo, Taïba, Tigress Sidonie put on the show |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200407140538.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=Notre Voie |location=Abidjan, Ivory Coast |language=fr}} A reissued version of "Bibi Madeleine: L'argent appelle l'argent", co-written with Awilo Longomba and Edgar Yonkeu, was released in 2005.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=22 September 2012 |title=Barbara Kanam: La nouvelle diva africaine |trans-title=Barbara Kanam: The new African diva |url=https://www.newmorning.com/20120922-2590-barbara-kanam.html |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=New Morning |language=fr}} It gained immense popularity throughout Africa, the Caribbean, and Europe's African expatriate population, notably in France, earning Kanam two consecutive Black Music Awards for Best Video and Revelation of the Year.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=22 September 2012 |title=Barbara Kanam: La nouvelle diva africaine |trans-title=Barbara Kanam: The new African diva |url=https://www.newmorning.com/20120922-2590-barbara-kanam.html |access-date=2024-12-17 |website=New Morning |language=fr}}{{Cite news |last=Coulibaly |first=Rémi |date=29 June 2005 |title=Cote d'Ivoire: Consécration: Kanam dans la cour des grands! |trans-title=Ivory Coast: Consecration: Kanam in the big leagues! |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200506290807.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=Fraternité Matin |location=Abidjan, Ivory Coast |language=French}} The following year, she collaborated with Fally Ipupa on the track "100% Love" from his album Droit Chemin.{{Cite web |date=16 December 2022 |title=Fally Ipupa - Biographie, discographie et fiche artiste |url=https://musique.rfi.fr/artiste/musique-africaine/fally-ipupa |access-date=3 November 2023 |website=RFI |language=fr |publication-place=Paris, France}}{{Cite web |last=Adjuvant |first=Kribios-Kauta |date=11 June 2024 |title=Droit Chemin, le grand succès et le couronnement de Fally Ipupa à la tête de la 5ème Génération de la musique congolaise |trans-title=Droit Chemin, the great success and the coronation of Fally Ipupa at the head of the 5th Generation of Congolese music |url=https://www.kribiosuniversal.com/post/droit-chemin-le-grand-succes-et-le-couronnement-de-fally-ipupa-a-la-tete-de-la-5eme-generation-de-la-musique-congolaise- |access-date=20 December 2024 |website=Kribios Universal |language=fr}}{{Cite web |title=Fally Ipupa - Droit Chemin - 100% Love |url=https://www.universrumbacongolaise.com/produit/fally-ipupa-droit-chemin-100-love-feat-barbara-kanam/ |access-date=3 November 2023 |website=Universrumbacongolaise.com |language=fr-FR}}

In 2008, Kanam ended her contract with Koné Dodo and founded her own record label, Kanam Music.{{Cite web |date=23 August 2017 |title=Barbara Kanam sort un nouveau single |trans-title=Barbara Kanam releases a new single |url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/fr/magazine/barbara-kanam-sort-un-nouveau-single |access-date=3 November 2023 |website=Music In Africa |language=fr}} She commenced work on her third studio album, Karibu (Swahili for "welcome"), in Paris the same year.{{Cite news |last1=Enyimo |first1=Martin |last2=Nsimba |first2=Patou |date=15 November 2008 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Barbara Kanam à Kinshasa pour réaliser des images de son prochain opus "Karibu" |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Barbara Kanam in Kinshasa to produce images for her next opus "Karibu" |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200811170466.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=Le Potentiel |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}} Subsequently, she relocated to Ivory Coast in July 2009 to focus on Karibu. An event was organized by the King Production record label in Abidjan, which involved approximately thirty journalists to broadcast the album's forthcoming release.{{Cite news |date=24 July 2009 |title=Cote d'Ivoire: Sortie d'album - Le nouveau bébé de Barbara Kanam est là |trans-title=Cote d'Ivoire: Sortie d'album - Le nouveau bébé de Barbara Kanam est là |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200907240772.html |access-date=3 November 2023 |work=Nordsudquotidien.com |location=Cotonou, Benin |language=fr}} She then returned to Lubumbashi in November to oversee the production of Karibu's music videos and conducted several concerts.{{Cite web |date=11 January 2009 |title=Barbara Kanam |url=https://www.radiookapi.net/emissions-2/lartiste/2009/01/11/barbara-kanam |access-date=3 November 2023 |website=Radio Okapi |language=fr}} The album was officially released in January 2010 by Kanam Music.{{Cite web |date=20 January 2010 |title=Barbara Kanam lance "Karibu" |url=https://www.radiookapi.net/emissions-2/lartiste/2010/01/20/barbara-kanam-lance-karibu |access-date=3 November 2023 |website=Radio Okapi |language=fr}}{{Cite web |last=Masela |first=Nioni |date=21 July 2016 |title=Interview. Barbara Kanam: "Je pense que je réponds à une demande" |trans-title=Interview. Barbara Kanam: "I think I'm responding to a demand" |url=https://www.adiac-congo.com/content/interview-barbara-kanam-je-pense-que-je-reponds-une-demande-53969 |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Adiac-congo.com |language=fr}} It blends Congolese rumba and features Fally Ipupa on the track "Noir & Blanc".{{Cite web |title=Kanam Barbara: Chanteur/euse, Acteur/trice, Producteur/trice, Compositeur |url=https://africultures.com/personnes/?no=32701 |access-date=3 November 2023 |website=Africultures |language=fr-FR}} Karibu achieved critical success, with journalists and broadcasters such as Claudy Siar and Yves Robert Brazza Kambala declaring it as one of the year's best releases. Kanam became a "standard-bearer" for female African musicians.{{Cite web |last=Tsala |first=Boni |title=ACTU DE STARS: Barbara Kanam en pleine promotion de son album "Karibu" |url=http://abidjantv.net/affiche.php?id=152 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091001233555/http://abidjantv.net/affiche.php?id=152 |archive-date=1 October 2009 |website=Abidjan TV |language=fr}} Kanam later performed at Venus Hotel in Kinshasa during the 2nd edition of the Ndule Awards{{Cite web |date=26 February 2010 |title=Ndule Awards: jour j-1 |trans-title=Ndule Awards: day d-1 |url=https://www.radiookapi.net/en-bref/2010/02/26/ndule-awards-jour-j-1 |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Radio Okapi |language=fr |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} and received a nomination for Best Female Artist at the 3rd edition of MTV Africa Music Awards.{{Cite web |date=4 December 2010 |title=Barbara Kanam parle de sa nomination au MTV Awards |trans-title=Barbara Kanam talks about her MTV Awards nomination |url=https://www.radiookapi.net/regions/kinshasa/2010/12/04/barbara-kanam-parle-de-sa-nomination-au-mtv-awards |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Radio Okapi |language=fr}} She also performed at the Obelisk Square in Dakar as part of the 3rd edition of the World Festival of Black Arts.{{Cite web |date=28 December 2010 |title=Festival mondial des arts nègres: Barbara Kanam et Lexxus Légal se produisent ce mardi soir |trans-title=World Festival of Negro Arts: Barbara Kanam and Lexxus Légal perform this Tuesday evening |url=https://www.radiookapi.net/en-bref/2010/12/28/festival-mondial-des-arts-negres-barbara-kanam-et-lexxus-legal-se-produisent-ce-mardi-soir |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Radio Okapi |language=fr}}{{Cite news |last=Enyimo |first=Martin |date=10 January 2011 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Le rappeur Lexxus Legal lauréat du prix de la Renaissance africaine au Fesman à Dakar |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Rapper Lexxus Legal winner of the African Renaissance prize at Fesman in Dakar |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201101101712.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |work=Le Potentiel |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}}

In October 2014, Kanam was featured on "Africa Stop Ebola", a song promoting awareness about Ebola hemorrhagic fever in Africa.{{Cite news |date=27 October 2014 |title=Afrique: "Africa Stop Ebola" enfin le clip les grand noms de la musique africaine s'engagent contre le virus |trans-title=Africa: "Africa Stop Ebola" finally the clip the big names in African music take action against the virus |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201410280550.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |work=Aminata.com |language=French}} The song features singers Tiken Jah Fakoly, Amadou & Mariam, Salif Keita, Oumou Sangaré, Kandia Kouyaté, Mory Kanté, Sia Tolno, and rappers Didier Awadi, Marcus, and Mokobé Traoré.{{Cite web |last=Bindika |first=Rosalie |date=28 October 2014 |title=Ébola: des artistes musiciens africains se mobilisent contre l'épidémie |trans-title=Ebola: African musical artists mobilize against the epidemic |url=https://www.adiac-congo.com/content/ebola-des-artistes-musiciens-africains-se-mobilisent-contre-lepidemie-22461 |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Adiac-congo.com |language=fr |publication-place=Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |date=27 October 2014 |title=Vidéos: les artistes africains chantent contre Ebola |trans-title=Videos: African artists sing against Ebola |url=https://www.france24.com/fr/20141027-ebola-chanteurs-africains-artistes-clips-liberia-guinee-senegal-videos-mobilisation |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=France 24 |language=fr |publication-place=Paris, France}}{{Cite web |date=28 October 2014 |title=Africa Stop Ebola: des artistes africains se mobilisent contre Ebola |trans-title=Africa Stop Ebola: African artists mobilize against Ebola |url=https://www.jeuneafrique.com/41169/culture/africa-stop-ebola-des-artistes-africains-se-mobilisent-contre-ebola/ |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Jeune Afrique |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Paris, France}} It includes instructions from experts on how to respect health and hygienic precautions.

Kanam began recording her fourth studio album, Zawadi, in 2014. She explained in an interview with La Prospérité that "Zawadi" is a Swahili word for "gift" and symbolizes a precious divine gift bestowed on Earth. The album features a choreographed dance known as the "danse du président".{{Cite news |last=Diala |first=J. |date=17 December 2014 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Sur le marché du disque - "Zawadi", Barbara Kanam prête pour la sauce! |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: On the record market - "Zawadi", Barbara Kanam ready for the sauce! |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201412180983.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |work=La Prospérité |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}} While working on Zawadi, Kanam also served as a jury member in the Jeunes Talents music contest and later toured Paris to negotiate distribution deals for the album's forthcoming release.{{Cite web |last=Diala |first=J. |date=19 December 2014 |title=Sur le marché du disque: "Zawadi", Barbara Kanam prête pour la sauce |trans-title=On the music market: "Zawadi", Barbara Kanam ready to spice things up |url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/magazine/sur-le-march%C3%A9-du-disque-%C2%ABzawadi-%C2%BB-barbara-kanam-pr%C3%AAte-pour-la-sauce |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Music In Africa |language=fr}} The album premiered digitally on 1 July 2015, and on compact disc on 12 July.{{Cite web |last=Diasso |first=Alain |date=13 November 2015 |title=Production: Barbara Kanam amène "Zawadi" au Roméo Golf |trans-title=Production: Barbara Kanam brings "Zawadi" to Roméo Golf |url=https://www.adiac-congo.com/content/production-barbara-kanam-amene-zawadi-au-romeo-golf-41584 |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Adiac-congo.com |language=French |publication-place=Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo}} The album blended Congolese rumba and includes collaborations with Bana C4 and zouk singer Marvin.{{Cite web |date=17 November 2015 |title=Barbara Kanam présente son nouvel album le 28 novembre |trans-title=Barbara Kanam presents her new album on November 28 |url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/fr/magazine/barbara-kanam-pr%C3%A9sente-son-nouvel-album-le-28-novembre |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Music In Africa |language=fr}} Kanam described Zawadi as her "most accomplished" album, artistically and vocally richer than her previous records.{{Cite web |date=24 September 2015 |title=Musique: "Zawadi" le nouvel album de la diva Barbara Kanam |trans-title="Zawadi" the new album from diva Barbara Kanam |url=https://www.mediacongo.net/article-actualite-12825_zawadi_le_nouvel_album_de_la_diva_barbara_kanam.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Mediacongo.net |language=French |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} She supported the album with a concert at the Roméo Golf in Kinshasa on 28 November. In August 2016, Kanam received the Best African Female Artist award during the 2nd edition of the Afroca Music Awards in Brazzaville.{{Cite news |last=Diala |first=Jordache |date=19 August 2016 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Barbara Kanam - Meilleure artiste féminine africaine |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Barbara Kanam - Best African female artist |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201608190538.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |work=La Prospérité |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}} Back in Kinshasa, she gave an interview to La Prospérité expressing her gratitude to the people who had supported her throughout her 15-year musical career. Zawadi also won her the Jury Special Award at the 11th edition of the Canal d'Or, held at the Palais des Congrès de Yaoundé in the presence of the Cameroonian First Lady, Chantal Biya.{{Cite news |last=Diala |first=Jordache |date=13 March 2017 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Prix spécial Canal d'Or 2017 - Barbara Kanam honorée au Cameroun ! |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Canal d'Or Special Prize 2017 - Barbara Kanam honored in Cameroon! |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201703130187.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |work=La Prospérité |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=7 March 2017 |title=Ferre Gola et Barbara Kanam gagnants au Canal 2'or 2017 |trans-title=Ferre Gola et Barbara Kanam gagnants au Canal 2’or 2017 |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/ferre-gola-barbara-kanam-gagnants-canal-2or-2017/4553/ |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}

In June 2017, Kanam revealed her upcoming single "Mela Mayi" to Forum des As.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=6 June 2017 |title=Barbara Kanam prépare son prochain single "Mela Mayi" |trans-title=Barbara Kanam prepares her next single "Mela Mayi" |url=https://mbote.cd/celebrites/barbara-kanam-prepare-prochain-single-mela-mayi/6662/ |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} Initially recorded in 2016, a teaser of the music video was shared on YouTube that June.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=21 November 2017 |title=Barbara Kanam annonce un nouveau clip |trans-title=Barbara Kanam announces a new music video |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/barbara-kanam-annonce-nouveau-clip/9725/ |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} The video was officially launched on 19 August 2017, featuring a lively, high-spirited performance.{{Cite news |last=Diala |first=Jordache |date=22 August 2017 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Après la "danse du Président" - Barbara Kanam réapparaît avec "Mela mayi"! |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: After the "President's Dance" – Barbara Kanam reappears with "Mela mayi"! |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201708230605.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |work=La Prospérité |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=20 August 2017 |title=Découvrez le clip générique "Mela mayi" de Barbara Kanam |trans-title=Discover the generic music video "Mela mayi" by Barbara Kanam |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/decouvrez-clip-generique-mela-mayi-de-barbara-kanam/8258/ |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} To support "Mela Mayi", Kanam held an exclusive concert at SHOWBUZZ in Kinshasa on 15 December 2017 and received a nomination for Best Female Artist of Central Africa at the African Music Industry Awards.{{Cite news |last=Diala |first=Jordache |date=29 November 2017 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Après "Zawadi" - Une bonne odeur chez Barbara Kanam ! |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: After "Zawadi" – A good smell at Barbara Kanam! |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201711300467.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |work=La Prospérité |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}}{{Cite news |last=Diala |first=Jordache |date=22 February 2018 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: Ami Awards Afrika 2018 - Barbara Kanam dans la course pour le trophée |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Ami Awards Afrika 2018 - Barbara Kanam in the race for the trophy |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201802230350.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |work=La Prospérité |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}}

In March 2018, Kanam premiered the single "Lisanga Ya Ba Mbanda", a Congolese rumba-inspired cover of M'bilia Bel's hit from the 1980s.{{Cite news |last=Diala |first=Jordache |date=4 April 2018 |title=Congo-Kinshasa: A travers la chanson "Lisanga ya ba mbanda" - Barbaka Kanam dans la peau de Mbilia Bel! |trans-title=Congo-Kinshasa: Through the song "Lisanga ya ba mbanda" - Barbaka Kanam in the shoes of Mbilia Bel! |url=https://fr.allafrica.com/stories/201804050733.html |access-date=4 November 2023 |work=La Prospérité |location=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |language=French}} Speaking with La Prospérité, she shared, ".....I pay a deserved and living tribute to mother Mbilia Bel, the Cleopatra". On 23 December 2019, she introduced the dance-centric single "Bouger", followed by the release of "Flèche" on 14 March 2020.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=21 February 2020 |title=Barbara Kanam annonce la sortie d'un single intitulé "Flèche" |trans-title=Barbara Kanam announces the release of a single entitled "Flèche" |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/barbara-kanam-annonce-la-sortie-dun-single-intitule-fleche/25642/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} Her love ballad "Atcha", a fusion of Congolese rumba sung in Swahili, Lingala, and French, was released on 9 October 2020 and received widespread acclaim in Kinshasa.{{Cite web |last=Mpiutu |first=Miguel Jegou |date=4 October 2020 |title=Barbara Kanam annonce la sortie de son nouveau single "Atcha" en octobre |trans-title=Barbara Kanam announces the release of her new single "Atcha" in October |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/barbara-kanam-annonce-la-sortie-de-son-nouveau-single-atcha-en-octobre/53588/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |last=Mpiutu |first=Miguel Jegou |date=11 October 2020 |title=Découvrez le nouveau single "Atcha" de Barbara Kanam |trans-title=Discover the new single "Atcha" by Barbara Kanam |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/decouvrez-le-nouveau-single-atcha-de-barbara-kanam/54327/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} To commemorate the release, she hosted a VIP event at Village Chez Ntemba, located at 10 Avenue Du Port, Gombe, Kinshasa that same evening.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=8 October 2020 |title=Barbara Kanam en concert au village Chez Ntemba ce week-end |trans-title=Barbara Kanam in concert at the village Chez Ntemba this weekend |url=https://mbote.cd/evenements/barbara-kanam-en-concert-au-village-chez-ntemba-ce-week-end/54004/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} Wrapping up the year, she joined the 10th Festival Mondial de Musique des Femmes in Montreal, Canada, on 26–27 September,{{Cite web |last=Mpiutu |first=Miguel Jegou |date=14 September 2020 |title=Festival mondial de musique des femmes: Barbara Kanam invitée parmi les 20 autres chanteuses |trans-title=World Women's Music Festival: Barbara Kanam invited among 20 other singers |url=https://mbote.cd/actualites/festival-mondial-de-musique-des-femmes-barbara-kanam-invitee-parmi-les-20-autres-chanteuses/51136/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} and on 19 December, she was awarded the CANA 2020 prize at the second edition of CANA (Célébration des Artistes Nationaux de l'Année; CANA), an honor she had won numerous times from this Burkinabe organization.{{Cite web |last=Mpiutu |first=Miguel Jegou |date=19 December 2020 |title=Barbara Kanam reçoit le prix Cana 2020 |trans-title=Barbara Kanam receives the 2020 Cana Prize |url=https://mbote.cd/celebrites/barbara-kanam-recoit-le-prix-cana-2020/57386/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |date=21 December 2020 |title=Le prix "Cana 2020" décerné à l'artiste musicienne Barbara Kanam au Burkina Faso |trans-title=The "Cana 2020" prize awarded to the musical artist Barbara Kanam in Burkina Faso |url=https://acp.cd/culture/le-prix-cana-2020-decerne-a-lartiste-musicienne-barbara-kanam-au-burkina-faso/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=ACP |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |last=Mafuta |first=Masand |date=23 December 2020 |title=Musique: Barbara Kanam remporte le prix "Cana 2020" au Burkina Faso |trans-title=Music: Barbara Kanam wins the "Cana 2020" prize in Burkina Faso |url=https://culturecongo.com/musique-barbara-kanam-remporte-le-prix-cana-2020-au-burkina-faso/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=CultureCongo |language=fr-FR}} She followed up with the single "Amour Invincible" on 9 December 2021 and "Oxygène" on 31 December 2022.{{Cite web |date=1 April 2023 |title=Barbara Kanam témoigne sa gratitude à Dieu dans son nouveau single "Uzima" |trans-title=Barbara Kanam Shows Gratitude to God in New Single "Uzima" |url=https://acp.cd/culture/barbara-kanam-temoigne-sa-gratitude-a-dieu-dans-son-nouveau-single-uzima/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=ACP |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=1 March 2023 |title=Oxygène: le tube de Barbara Kanam qui pulvérise ses records de vues sur YouTube |trans-title=Oxygène: Barbara Kanam's hit that smashes its viewing records on YouTube |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/oxygene-le-tube-de-barbara-kanam-qui-pulverise-ses-records-de-vues-sur-youtube/128148/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} On 21 February 2023, she released the Congolese rumba single "Consommation", produced by Kanam Music and distributed by Virgin Music Africa, accompanied by a music video featuring Kanam dancing and engaging in an intimate scene with a man.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=23 February 2023 |title="Consommation", le nouveau clip de Barbara Kanam est disponible |trans-title="Consommation", Barbara Kanam's new video is available |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/consommation-le-nouveau-clip-de-barbara-kanam-est-disponible/127723/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |last=Mutombo |first=Onassis |date=18 December 2022 |title=La Diva Barbara Kanam sort deux singles, "Consommation" et "Oxygène" |trans-title=Diva Barbara Kanam releases two singles, "Consommation" and "Oxygène" |url=https://arts.cd/la-diva-barbara-kanam-sort-deux-singles-consommation-et-oxygene/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Arts.cd |language=fr-FR}} In two weeks, the song accumulated more than one million YouTube views.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=12 March 2023 |title=Barbara Kanam réalise 1 million des vues sur YouTube avec le clip "Consommation" |trans-title=Barbara Kanam achieves 1 million views on YouTube with the clip "Consommation" |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/barbara-kanam-realise-1-million-des-vues-sur-youtube-avec-le-clip-consommation/129057/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} On 5 April 2023, she released the spiritually-themed song "Uzima" (Swahili for "life"), expressing gratitude to God,{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=16 March 2023 |title=Barbara Kanam: Le nouveau single "Uzima" arrive très prochainement |trans-title=Barbara Kanam: The new single "Uzima" is coming very soon |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/barbara-kanam-le-nouveau-single-uzima-arrive-tres-prochainement/129326/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} and on 25 May, she collaborated on Félix Wazekwa's "Jalousie XL" from his double album Article 23.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=25 May 2023 |title=Felix Wazekwa dévoile le clip "Jalousie XL" en featuring avec Barbara Kanam |trans-title=Felix Wazekwa unveils the clip "Jalousie XL" featuring Barbara Kanam |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/felix-wazekwa-ddevoile-le-clip-jalousie-xl-en-featuring-avec-barbara-kanam/134964/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} In June 2023, Kanam released "Isolée", featuring Fabregas Le Métis Noir, produced by Kanam Music and co-distributed by Universal Music Africa and Virgin Music Africa.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2 June 2023 |title=Barbara Kanam dévoile le titre "Isolée" en featuring avec Fabregas le Metis Noir |trans-title=Barbara Kanam unveils the title "Isolée" featuring Fabregas le Metis Noir |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/barbara-kanam-ddevoile-le-titre-isolee-en-featuring-avec-fabregas-le-metis-noir/135741/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}

On 23 December 2023, Kanam released her fifth studio album Transfiguration, a fusion of Congolese rumba and ndombolo.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=24 December 2023 |title=Découvrez la chanson "Réalité d'amour" de Barbara Kanam en featuring avec Ferre Gola |trans-title=Discover the song "Réalité d'amour" by Barbara Kanam featuring Ferre Gola |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/decouvrez-la-chanson-realite-damour-de-barbara-kanam-en-featuring-avec-ferre-gola/151873/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=25 December 2023 |title=Barbara Kanam fait appel à Koffi Olomide dans la chanson "Me voici" |trans-title=Barbara Kanam calls on Koffi Olomide in the song "Me voici" |url=https://mbote.cd/musiques/barbara-kanam-fait-appel-a-koffi-olomide-dans-la-chanson-me-voici/152072/ |access-date=17 December 2024 |website=Mbote |language=fr-FR |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}} Produced by Kanam Music and co-distributed through Universal Music Africa and Virgin Music Africa, the 14-track album includes the previous track "Isolée" and collaborations with Ferré Gola, Koffi Olomide, Héritier Watanabe, Fabregas Le Métis Noir, Roga Roga, Ariel Shaney, Mimie, and Coco Argentée.{{Cite web |last=Adjuvant |first=Kribios-Kauta |date=16 December 2023 |title=Transfiguration: Voici à quoi ressemble le nouvel album de Barbara Kanam |trans-title=Transfiguration: This is what Barbara Kanam's new album looks like |url=https://www.kribiosuniversal.com/post/transfiguration-voici-a-quoi-ressemble-le-nouvel-album-de-barbara-kanam |access-date=20 December 2024 |website=Kribios Universal |language=en-US}}

In 2013, Kanam served as a member of the coaching panel for the show Best of Best in Kinshasa. The following year, she participated in the inaugural season of Island Africa Talent in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast.

On 8 July 2023, President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, issued an ordinance appointing Kanam as the Director General (DG) of the Cultural Promotion Fund (FPC). Kanam is tasked with overseeing the promotion and development of the cultural sector within the country.

Kanam established the Kanam Foundation, which she directs, as a platform to address issues related to women's empowerment and child welfare.{{Cite web |last=Kribios-Kauta |first=Adjuvant |date=1 October 2022 |title=Guitariste, compositrice et chanteuse... 6 choses à savoir sur Barbara Kanam |trans-title=Guitarist, composer and singer... 6 things to know about Barbara Kanam |url=https://www.kribiosuniversal.com/post/guitariste-compositrice-et-chanteuse...-6-choses-a-savoir-sur-barbara-kanam |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=Kribios Universal |language=fr}}{{Cite web |last=Ndungidi |first=Patrick |date=9 July 2019 |title=Barbara Kanam: "je me suis toujours proposé de promouvoir et défendre les droits des femmes" |trans-title=Barbara Kanam: "I have always proposed to promote and defend women's rights" |url=https://africanshapers.com/barbara-kanam-je-me-suis-toujours-proposee-de-promouvoir-et-defendre-les-droits-des-femmes/ |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=African Shapers |language=fr-FR}} She is also the patron of the Association for the Fight against Childhood Cancer (GFAOP).

In October 2012, she contributed to the peace-themed musical project "Stop à la Guerre à l'Est!" alongside Innoss'B, Fally Ipupa, Papa Wemba, Tshala Muana, Simaro Lutumba, Félix Wazekwa, Bill Clinton Kalonji, Marie Misamu, Meje 30 (also known as MJ30), King Kester Emeneya, Koffi Olomide, JB Mpiana, Werrason, Manda Chante, Fiston Mbuyi, Verby All Stars, Leperc, and M'bilia Bel.{{Cite web |last=Mitari |first=Jean |date=26 November 2012 |title=La guerre à l'Est de la RDC : Les artistes congolais se mobilisent |trans-title=War in Eastern DRC: Congolese artists mobilize |url=https://www.jambonews.net/actualites/20121126-la-guerre-a-lest-de-la-rdc-les-artistes-congolais-se-mobilisent/ |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=Jambo News |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |date=6 March 2013 |title=Des chanteurs contre la guerre en RDC |trans-title=Singers against the war in the DRC |url=https://www.radiookapi.net/lu-sur-le-web/2013/03/06/des-chanteurs-contre-la-guerre-en-rdc-rfi |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=Radio Okapi |language=fr}}{{Cite web |last=Bangré |first=Habibou |date=6 March 2013 |title=Des chanteurs contre la guerre en RDC |trans-title=Singers against the war in the DRC |url=https://musique.rfi.fr/actu-musique/musique-africaine/20130306-chanteurs-guerre-rdc-olomide-ipupa-papa-wamba |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=Radio France Internationale |language=fr}} The project, co-produced by Peace Ambassador Odiane Lokako and Deputy Patrick Muyaya Katembwe, condemned the March 23 Movement rebellion in North Kivu and advocated for peace. In 2013, Kanam collaborated with Asalfo on a project aimed at promoting education for underprivileged children. The next year, she took part in the "Africa Stop Ebola" project, joining forces with Tiken Jah Fakoly, Amadou & Mariam, Salif Keita, Oumou Sangaré, Kandia Kouyaté, Mory Kanté, Sia Tolno, and rappers Didier Awadi, Marcus, and Mokobé Traoré, to raise awareness and combat the Ebola epidemic.

In 2019, she was honored with an honorary doctorate from the University of Florida for her societal contributions, becoming the only Congolese musician to achieve this honor.{{Cite web |last=Kitsita |first=Jephthah |date=25 March 2019 |title=RDC: L'artiste Barbara Kanam élevée au rang de "docteur honoris Causa" |trans-title=DRC: Artist Barbara Kanam elevated to the rank of "doctor honoris causa" |url=https://7sur7.cd/rdc-lartiste-barbara-kanam-elevee-au-rang-de-docteur-honoris-causa |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=7sur7.cd |language=fr}}{{Cite web |last=Aloterembi |first=Daniel |date=25 March 2019 |title=L'artiste musicienne Barbara Kanam élevée au rang de 'docteur honoris causa' |trans-title=Musician Barbara Kanam awarded "honoris causa doctor" |url=https://www.mediacongo.net/article-actualite-49213_l_artiste_musicienne_barbara_kanam_elevee_au_rang_de_docteur_honoris_causa.html |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=Mediacongo.net |language=fr |publication-place=Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo}}{{Cite web |date=25 March 2019 |title=RDC-Musique: Barbara Kanam élevée au rang de docteur honoris causa! |trans-title=DRC-Music: Barbara Kanam elevated to the rank of doctor honoris causa! |url=https://scooprdc.net/2019/03/25/rdc-musique-barbara-kanam-elevee-au-rang-de-docteur-honoris-causa/ |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=Scoop RDC |language=fr-FR}} She also received honorary doctorate from the Observatoire Africain de la sanction positive et les valeurs de paix (OASP), along with the title of a Woman of Value.{{Cite web |date=27 March 2019 |title=La chanteuse Barbara Kanam "docteur honoris causa" de l'université de Floride aux Etats-Unis |trans-title=Singer Barbara Kanam awarded "honorary doctorate" by the University of Florida in the United States |url=https://www.latempete.info/?p=35144 |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=Latempete.info |language=fr-FR}} That year, Kanam was also designated as a Champion for the Promotion of Women's Rights by Chantal Safou, the Minister of Gender, Family, and Children. In 2022, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) appointed her as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Promotion of Climate Action in the DRC.{{Cite web |date=23 May 2022 |title=Changement climatique: Barbara Kanam Mutund, ambassadrice du PNUD en RDC |trans-title=Climate change: Barbara Kanam Mutund, UNDP ambassador in the DRC |url=https://www.radiookapi.net/2022/05/26/emissions/magazine-un/changement-climatique-barbara-kanam-mutund-ambassadrice-du-pnud-en |access-date=14 January 2025 |website=Radio Okapi |language=fr}}{{Cite web |last= |date=27 March 2024 |title=Barbara Kanam Docteur Honoris Causa , Ambassadrice du PNUD: Voici le brillant parcours de celle qui va promouvoir la Culture Co |trans-title=Barbara Kanam Doctor Honoris Causa, UNDP Ambassador: Here is the brilliant career of the woman who will promote Congolese Culture |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Barbara_Kanam&action=edit&wvprov=sticky-header |access-date=13 January 2025 |website=Foxtime.cd |language=fr-FR}}

• Mokili (1999)
• Téti (2003)
• Karibu (2010)
• Zawadi (2015)
• Transfiguration (2023)

{{Reflist}}

• [http://barbarakanam.skyrock.com/ Barbara Kanam Skyrock Music Blog]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20100219074713/http://www.topvisages.net/entrevue/14-02-10.php TopVisages page]

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{{DEFAULTSORT:Kanam, Barbara}}

Category:1970 births

Category:Living people

Category:People from Bukavu

Category:Democratic Republic of the Congo guitarists

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

Category:Democratic Republic of the Congo songwriters

Category:Democratic Republic of the Congo emigrants to Ivory Coast

Category:21st-century Ivorian women singers

Category:21st-century guitarists

Category:21st-century women guitarists

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

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