Bonga, whose real name is José Adelino Barceló de Carvalho, is an esteemed Angolan folk and semba musician known for his soulful voice and engaging storytelling through his music. Born on September 5, 1942, in the province of Bengo, Angola, he has become a cultural icon, not just within his homeland but also across the world where his music is celebrated for its reflections on Angolan identity, independence, and the everyday experiences of the Angolan people.

His music career began in earnest in the early 1970s after a stint as a famed track star for the Portuguese national team, which allowed him to travel and subsequently become more politically active against Portuguese colonial rule. His music gave a voice to the Angolan struggle for independence and has continued to address social and political issues over the years. Bonga's gravelly voice and distinctive blend of Angolan, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences have earned him a dedicated fan base, and his work, including recent releases like "Mona Ki Ngi Xica," which has been remixed multiple times by various international artists, indicates his continued relevance in the world music scene. With more than 30 albums to his name, Bonga stands out as a living legend in Lusophone African music, beloved for his poignant, rhythmic anthems that sing of resilience and hope.

Genres

Afropop

Morna

Semba

Related Artists

Mayra Andrade

Lura

Sara Tavares

Paulo Flores

Seu Jorge

Cesária Evora

Waldemar Bastos

Tito Paris

Gal Costa

Youssou N'Dour

Mariza

Yemi Alade

Latest Release

Best of (Sodade & Kaxexe)

Bonga•

Arp Frique

Single - Released March 1, 2024