Congolese Rhumba star General Defao dies at age 62 ahead of his New Year show in Cameroon.
The renowned Congolese singer and songwriter Francois Lulendo Matumona died yesterday, at the Laquintinie Hospital in Douala, Cameroon, where he was admitted.
General Defao succumbed to reported complications arising from Covid-19. According to reports, Defao arrived in Cameroon last week and had been engaged in rehearsals for his New Year’s Eve concert when he felt discomfort.
The Sala Noki singer will fondly be remembers for his melodious voice and silky moves that spurred excitement in his fans.
Musicians Ferre Gola and Fally Ipupa were among the first ones to convey their condolences, describing his demise as a loss for Africa.
Who is General Defao?
General Defao was born in December on the 31st, 1958. He started singing in 1978 as part of Orchestre Suka Movema.
He briefly joined band Fogo Stars and Somo West before joining Grand Zaiko Wawa and later joining Choc Stars.
Defao wanted a solo career and he quit Choc Stars towards the end of 1990 and formed Big Stars with Djo Poster who later on left the group.
READ MORE: Kenya’s Rhumba star Johnny Junior releases new single “Ken McAyoo”
He released some very successful albums that could have done better had there been better management and government in his home-country.
His career later struggled and even a take off in Kenya seemed to not be happening. Despite his troubles he still lauded as one of the best Congolese musicians of his generation.