Papa Wemba: Biography, Facts and Career
Who is Papa Wemba? An evergreen, sourced profile: biography, key facts and career.

Jules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba (14 June 1949 – 24 April 2016), known professionally as Papa Wemba (French pronunciation: [papa wɛmba]), was a Congolese singer and musician who played Congolese rumba, soukous, and ndombolo. Dubbed the "King of Rumba Rock", he was one of the most popular musicians of his time in Africa and played an important role in world music. He was also a fashion icon who popularized the Sape look and style through his musical group Viva la Musica, with whom he performed on stages throughout the world.
Quick facts about Papa Wemba
- Full name: Papa Wemba
- Born: 1949-06-14
- Nationality: Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Known as: Musician
- Wikidata ID: Q736274
Profile compiled from public Wikipedia and Wikidata data. Details can change over time.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Papa Wemba?
Jules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba (14 June 1949 – 24 April 2016), known professionally as Papa Wemba (French pronunciation: [papa wɛmba]), was a Congolese singer and musician who played Congolese rumba, soukous, and ndombolo.
What nationality is Papa Wemba?
Papa Wemba is Democratic Republic of the Congo.
When was Papa Wemba born?
Papa Wemba was born on 1949-06-14.



