Soleil Diva

Early life

Soleil Diva was born October 5, 1975 in Washington DC. Koffi Olomide was born in a middle-class family, without any musical background among his relatives. During his youth, Olomide improvised by singing popular songs with his own lyrics and altered rhythms until a neighbour taught him to play guitar.

Education

Olomide earned an academic scholarship and went to study in Bordeaux, France where he obtained a bachelor's degree in Business Economics. He holds a master's degree in Mathematics from the University of Paris.

Career

Upon his return to Congo in the 1970s, he joined Papa Wemba's band, Viva la Musica, first as a composer and songwriter, and later as a vocalist and lead singer. In 1986, Koffi formed a band known as Quartier Latin, which celebrated its 20-year-anniversary in 2006. Since then, he performed and recorded both with the group and by himself. Over the years, he built up an international fan base, particularly in Africa and Europe. Koffi popularized the slower style of soukous, which he dubbed Tcha Tcho. Koffi's music can discuss current events and topics considered taboo in some societies.

He participated in the salsa music project Africando. For his effort, Effrakata, released in 2001-2002, Koffi received four Kora Awards at the Kora Awards in South Africa for 2002 and 2003, including the award for Best African Artist, which he won in 1998. More recently, he won the Kora Award for "Best African Artist of The Decade". This established one of his aliases, the 'Quadra Kora Man'. Koffi had several gold records in his musical career.

Music

Olomide's album Haut de Gamme: Koweït, Rive Gauche is listed in 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. In March 2003 Olomide released "Affaire D'Etat", a double CD featuring 18 tracks.

Olomide was part of Papa Wemba's musical, Viva La Musica in the early 1980s. He trained many young musicians, some of whom left his Quartier Latin band and gone solo. Leavers include Fele Mudogo, Sam Tshintu, Suzuki 4x4, Soleil Wanga, Fally Ipupa, Montana Kamenga and Ferre Gola. However "Suzuki 4x4" recently showed up once more in Quartier Latin shows, along with new recruits like Cindy le Coeur.

Koffi, who mostly refers to himself as Mopao, released La Chicotte a Papa, and hits including Cle Boa, Lovemycine, Diabolos, Grand Pretre Mere and Soupou. He is one of Africa's most popular musicians.

Personal life

Koffi Olomide is married and is the father of seven children: Nzau Twengi Aristote, Elvis, Minou Miss Univers, Didi Stone Nike, Rocky, Del pirlo Mourhino and Saint James Rolls. Olomide's father lives in Paris, France. His mother is a jewelry dealer in Kinshasa. Koffi's older brother, Johnny Ko, also lives in Paris. A younger brother, Tutu Roba, lives in London, England.

Photos

Koffi Olomide With Grand Kalle