Congolese Finger-style and the Development of Benga in Kenya
In the beginning of 1952, recording from the prominent Congolese guitarists such as Jean-Bosco Mwenda and Edouard Massengo were obtainable...
https://worldhitz4u.blogspot.com/2014/02/congolese-finger-style-and-development.html
In
the beginning of 1952, recording from the prominent Congolese guitarists such
as Jean-Bosco Mwenda and Edouard Massengo were obtainable in Kenya. Bosco’s
method of picking with the thumb and forefinger (finger-style) become renowned.
The finger-style music is rapid and it is usually based around the small
groups, in which the second guitar follows the first modified bass rhythms.
This pattern of music became very popular later in the year.
The
next year saw the original influences from kwela and rumba that become more
renowned than the finger-style. The Equator Sound band was the most famous band
of the era. In 1960s in Nairobi, bands, such as Air Fiesta and Hodi Boys were
famous, mainly playing the cover versions of Congolese, American and British
hits. Other artists were introducing the benga style, with Shirati Jazz that is
the most famous of the early band.
During
the 1970s, benga was at its most inventive, bringing numerous renowned bands
like Victoria Jazz and the Victoria Kings, Luna Kidi Band and Continental Luo
Sweet band.
