Black History Month is a time to celebrate, reflect, and rediscover the deep cultural and artistic heritage of the African diaspora. This year at AB, under the theme B(l)ack to Our Roots, we explore the significance of rumba and its powerful female voices in shaping music history.
Rumba Divas: women at the heart of Congolese Rumba
Congolese rumba has long been celebrated as one of the most influential musical genres in the African diaspora, but its female voices have often been overlooked. Monique Mbeka Phoba, the force behind Rumba Divas, has been dedicated to bringing these voices back to the forefront.
"When women sing, something special happens," she explains. "Their songs are softer, less rhythmically intense, but deeply moving. Yet, over time, we've seen women disappear from the rumba scene, which worried me. I wanted to do something about it, even at my own level."
The event is not just a tribute, it’s a revival. It’s a reminder that women have always been present in rumba, but due to lack of opportunities, they often remain unseen. Rumba Divas is here to change that.
A multi-generational journey
What makes Rumba Divas even more powerful is its intergenerational nature. The event brings together older generations who grew up with the sounds of Abeti, Mbilia Bel, and Tshala Muana, alongside younger artists rediscovering this legacy.
One of these artists is Yemo Ifefo, a Brussels-raised, London-based singer with a background in hip-hop and urban music. For her, being part of Rumba Divas represents a full-circle moment of reconnecting with her roots.
"I never thought I’d sing rumba," Yemo shares. "I used to hear it as background music at home, but I never engaged with it. I was focused on hip-hop, R&B, and urban music."
It was Monique Mbeka Phoba who first introduced her to the importance of women in rumba and encouraged her to explore the genre with fresh eyes.
"Monique showed me the depth and beauty of women’s voices in rumba, and I realized there’s so much to learn. It’s an honor to take part in this, but also a big responsibility."
Yemo's story is a reflection of what Rumba Divas represents: a bridge between generations, a revival of traditions, and a celebration of the enduring power of Congolese rumba.
"It’s incredible to see grandmothers, mothers, and daughters all experiencing these songs together, connecting through music. This is what Black History Month is about—bringing our histories and stories to new audiences and generations."
Join us for Rumba Divas
Come experience this unique celebration of Congolese rumba at AB on Saturday, March 16, and witness the magic of female voices reclaiming their place in music history.
More unmissable AB x BHM Events
- 14 March – BHM x AB Blueprint to navigate the music industry: The role of authentic identity for Black artists in Belgium
- 14 March – BHM x AB talk: building a meaningful public presence as a black artist in the Belgian music industry
- 16 March – BHM x AB: Rumba Divas
- 21 March – BHM x AB: Jabanè Sessions Workshop: Songwriting with STACE
- 21 March – Jabanè Sessions 6
