Congolese singer General Defao. PHOTO | FILE
A successful start in the 1990s, General Defao had left his country in the early 2000s to settle in Kenya where some said he was in political exile.
Upon returning to the DRC in August 2019, the singer denied that his absence from the country for more than 15 years was politically-related.
But according to some Congolese observers, the singer was very opposed to former president Joseph Kabila.
Musical career
Congolese musician General Defao in a Mombasa hotel on August 6, 2016. He had been detained for failing to pay the Sh20,000 bill. PHOTO | FILE
Defao was born on December 31, 1959. He entered the musical world in 1976 when he was only 17-years-old.
He quickly became famed for his beautiful voice, elegant look, and for being a very good dancer despite his large frame.
The young Defao began his career after joining the Grand Zaϊko Wawa orchestra led by guitarist Pépé Felly Manuaku in 1981.
In 1983, Defao left the band for Ben Nyamabo’s Choc Stars. He sang alongside Bozi Boziana, Lassa Carlyto, Debaba, Djuna Djanna, Nzaya Nzayadio.
