Les Belgicains

The compilation ‘Les Belgicains – Na Tango Ya Covadia 1964-1970’ (‘Les Belgicains’ during the time of Covadia 1964-1970) tells the remarkable story of the first Congolese student orchestras in Belgium. During that time Congolese referred to countrymen living in Belgium as ‘Les Belgicains’. The music presented on this compilation blew a new, fresh wind through the musical landscape of Congolese popular music under the supervision of the legendary editor and producer Nikiforos Cavvadias (Ngoma label).

The largest country in Africa is experiencing its early independence. During that period, Belgium invites many Congolese students to take classes at its universities. They are the future executives and ministers of the new republic. Out of a feeling of homesickness for their beautiful country, these students set up music groups. To dance and get carried away by the music the 45 rpm records they brought with them from Congo were too short. That is why they decide to bring live music to the events of the Congolese diaspora. Their own compositions are strongly influenced by their life in Belgium, resulting in a unique sound.

Nikiforos Cavvadias arrives in Belgium around the same time. At that moment he is one of the best-known editors and producers in Congo and he works for the Ngoma label based in Léopoldville. Niki is at the origin of the success of, among others: Léon Bukasa and Wendo Kolosoy... Due to the political instability in Congo, he moved to Belgium with his wife and two children. The student orchestras, like Los Nickelos and Yéyé National, are quickly noticed by Niki, who is looking for young, talented musicians to house under his new label Covadia.

This album is available in a deluxe vinyl edition with gatefold sleeve (1LP) + insert or a CD with a 24-page booklet. Both editions contain the story of 'Les Belgicains' and the Covadia label, with unique photos of the original orchestras. Renown sound engineer Roger Verbestel made the recordings between 1964 and 1968 in the legendary recording studio Studio Madeleine in Brussels. All music has been remastered from the original master tapes, except for Suena Suena.
crédits
paru le 19 avril 2024

General editor, notes & concept: Paul Kavvadias, Steve Van Acker
Compiled by: Paul Kavvadias, Steve Van Acker
Proofing: Paul Kavvadias, Jean-Pierre Nimy Nzonga
Traductions: Charlotte Mavandalt
Audio restoration & mastering: Synsound Studios
Graphic design: Uncompressed
Art work: Frederik Feyfer
Lacquer cut & manufacturer: Discomat

Thanks to: Jean-Pierre Nimy Nzonga (singer/guitarist Yéyé National), Charlotte Mavandalt, Dan Lacksman (Synsound Studios), Katrien Smets for her support, Frederik Feyfer (Uncompressed).