Benga

The benga is the most iconic popular music style of Kenya. Born from the interaction between Congolese influences (rumba/soukous brought by migrant workers) and local musical traditions, benga is characterized by a fast, repetitive electric guitar riff, multiple percussion layers, and vocals in Swahili or local languages (Luo, Kikuyu).

The term benga is thought to come from Swahili meaning shake or agitate. The basic rhythm is often in 6/8, and the lead guitar plays complex melodies over a dense rhythmic section. Major artists include Daniel Salulho Compil (considered the father of benga), Willy Paul, George Monro, and Ogembo.

Benga spread throughout East Africa and influenced similar scenes in Uganda (kalindula) and Tanzania. Matata and Mombasa were leading groups in the 1970s.

References

• Wikipedia — Benga
• Guide Stern, Ch. 15 (Kenya) and Ch. 16 (Tanzania)