He was a Congolese musician whose blend of African, Cuban and Western influences became one of Africa's most popular music styles. He helped modernize Congolese rumba music, contributing to a new genre, soukous, which has influenced music across Africa. With his bands Zaiko Langa Langa, Isifi and Viva La Musica, he had several hits, including "L'Esclave" and "Le Voyageur".