S6 E12: The fantastic epic of Rumba: From Kongo Empire to Cuba! (Part 1/3)

S6 E12: The fantastic epic of Rumba: From Kongo Empire to Cuba! (Part 1/3)

Author: Dr Teju Baba January 18, 2021 Duration: 9:55

If you take a close look at history books, you will certainly find examples of decisive moments where music and power crossed paths. And by now, there must be some of those examples of moments already jostling in your head? Perhaps you are thinking of the encounter between the genius of Mozart conquered by the Freemasons?  Or maybe between the composer Richard Wagner, dreamed but impossible love of King Louis the Second of Bavaria? And what about the one between Russian composer Dmitry Shostakovich manhandled like a toy by Stalin? Or the one between the Italian French composer Jean-Baptiste Lully, who only lived to magnify French King Louis the Fourteen? Last but not least and perhaps the most spectacular of all, is the encounter between the incredible British talent, Ethel Smyth, and the Suffragette revolution in Great Britain.

Yes, the list is very long of this type of encounters, but as you notice, most are examples from Europe. Yet in Africa, such encounters exist, a major one that deserves mention is a crossing between a man of power, the former president of Zaire, (current DRC), President Mobutu Sese Seko Kuku Ngbendu Wa Za ​​Banga, and a type of music, but can you guess which one? We will find this out soon…


Dr. Teju Baba hosts My African Cliches (English), a podcast that moves through time much like the Sankofa bird-looking thoughtfully at the past while steadily progressing forward. Each episode is a journey into the layers of African history, culture, and society, designed to challenge oversimplified narratives and uncover the continent's profound complexity. You’ll hear detailed explorations of specific events, figures, and cultural movements that are often glossed over or misunderstood, connecting historical roots to contemporary realities. This isn't just a recounting of dates and names; it's an engaging conversation about how centuries of rich, diverse experiences shape modern life across Africa. By unpacking these deep histories, the podcast provides essential context, helping listeners move beyond superficial stereotypes. Tune in for a nuanced and enlightening perspective that honors Africa's glorious past and its dynamic present, all within a single, thoughtfully produced podcast. Dr. Baba’s expertise guides you through these stories, making each episode a step toward a more informed and respectful understanding of a continent whose story is still being written.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

My African Cliches (English)
Podcast Episodes
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My African cliche of the day is a book! the first bilingual book that lists African pioneers. I didn't say heroes, and I didn't say black, I said pioneers and Africans. The combination of these 2 words suffers to appear…
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August 11, 1965, in the city of Watts, a suburb of Los Angeles. Community members witnessed the police hurting a pregnant woman, which started 6-long days of civil unrest. It was the city's worst unrest until the Rodney…