From Backup Singer to Rhumba Superstar: Madilu System's Journey to Musical Greatness, Plus Video Mix of his Best Hits

Madilu System, born Jean de Dieu Makiese, was a Congolese singer and songwriter who rose to prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. He was known for his unique vocal style and his ability to fuse Congolese rumba with elements of other musical genres such as jazz, funk, and reggae.

Madilu system.

However, Madilu's journey to success was not an easy one. It was a combination of talent, hard work, and a stroke of luck that propelled him to greatness.

Madilu was born in Kisangani, in what was then the Belgian Congo, in 1952. His family moved to Kinshasa when he was still a child.

Growing up in Kinshasa, Madilu was exposed to a wide range of musical genres, including traditional Congolese music, jazz, and soul. He began singing in church and later joined a local band as a backup singer. However, it was not until he met the legendary Congolese musician Franco Luambo Makiadi that Madilu's career began to take off.

In 1977, Madilu joined Franco's band, TPOK Jazz, as a backup singer. Franco was one of the most popular musicians in Africa at the time, and joining his band was a dream come true for Madilu. However, he soon realized that being a backup singer was not enough for him. He wanted to be a solo artist and to make his own music.

Madilu's opportunity came in 1980 when Franco went on a tour of Europe and left him in charge of the band. During this time, Madilu took the opportunity to write and record his own songs.

When Franco returned, he was impressed by Madilu's work and gave him the chance to perform his own songs on stage. This was a turning point in Madilu's career. His songs became hits, and he soon became a solo artist in his own right.

However, it was not until 1984 that Madilu had his stroke of luck. That year, he was invited to perform at a concert in Paris, France. The concert was organized by the legendary African musician Manu Dibango, who had heard Madilu's music and was impressed by his talent.

At the concert, Madilu met a French record producer named Philippe Guez, who was also impressed by his music. Guez offered to sign Madilu to his record label, Syllart Productions, and to produce his first album.

Madilu's first album, "Si Je Savais Ça," was released in 1985 and was an instant success. The album featured some of Madilu's most popular songs, including "Pesa Position," "La Fille est Malade," and "Mario."

The album was a fusion of Congolese rumba and elements of jazz and funk, and it showcased Madilu's unique vocal style. The album sold over 150,000 copies and established Madilu as a rising star in African music.

Madilu went on to record many more albums, each one showcasing his talent as a singer and songwriter. He continued to fuse Congolese rumba with elements of other musical genres, and his music became known for its rich harmonies and complex arrangements.

However, it was his ability to tell stories through his music that truly set him apart. His songs were often about love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life, and they resonated with audiences all over Africa.

Despite his success, Madilu faced many challenges throughout his career. He struggled with alcoholism and was often in debt. However, he remained committed to his music and continued to perform until his death.