MUSIC MONDAY: RICARDO LEMVO

Not only is it my parent's anniversary, it's also Angola Independence Day. To mark the special occasion, I've decided to share a fave song from Ricardo Lemvo. Before moving to the states, he grew up in the DRC until age 13, is of Angolan descent, and is somewhat a family friend. I met him when I was really young and barely remember, but it still counts. Right? 

ACADEMY AWARD NOMINATIONS

So excited that Africans are nominated for Academy Awards this year. Can't wait to see which amazing film takes home the Oscar! 

Best Documentary Feature

This documentary tells the incredible story of two South African fanatics of 70s music sensation, Rodriguez, and their quest to discover what really happened to their fallen idol. Watch the trailer here. 

SPOTLIGHT: THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

Seven filmmakers.Seven films. Seven cities.  One goal: to have their films debut at this year's Durban International Film Festival.

ODE TO JOY: KINSHASA SYMPHONY

Kinshasa Symphony, a film by Claus Wischmann and Martin Baer, is a gripping documentary following the Kimbanguiste Symphony as they prepare for their first public show.

THROWBACK THURSDAY: RUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE

The Ali vs. Foreman fight is considered one of the greatest events in sports history. It's also one of the greatest events in Congolese history. One of the most poignant moments during the fight was when the crowd started chanting " Ali Bomaye!", which is Lingala for "Ali, kill him!". This phrase became a cultural phenomenon and  even spawned a song.

MUSIC MONDAY: TOP 10 SONGS

Here's a list of our favorite top ten songs. Some old. Some new. All equally amazing. Enjoy!

Fally Ipupa- La Jungle
Omawumi- Bottom Belle
Koffi Olomide- Rond Point
Inna Modja- Life
Magic System-Premier Gaou
Tshala Muana- Nasi Nabali
Tinie Tempah- Illusion
Yvonne Chaka Chaka-Burning Up
P Brodaz- Do It Your Way

Jessy Matador

VIVA LA RIVA

Congolese producer/writer/director Djo Tunda Wa Munga’s directorial debut, Viva Riva!, follows the exploits of Riva (Patsha Bay), a young, charismatic thief with a truckload of stolen fuel he intends to sell in his corrupt, gas starved hometown of Kinshasa, DR Congo.