Legendary Lingala singer General Defao has a ‘new’ skin

After years of silence and missing in action, legendary Congolese Lingala artiste Matumona Defao Lulendo, popularly known as General Defao, has resurfaced on the social scene, though not for his music but for a bleached visage.

Last week, the Lingala maestro caused a stir after he appeared at Egesa nightclub in Umoja, Nairobi where he had a concert. Revelers were surprised to see a more ‘white’ Defao – whom they were not familiar with.

Renowned dancer Kanda King met with the 57-year-old singer at the concert and took photos with him that he later shared on social media.

Bleaching is a common phenomenon in Congo.

Defao was a pivotal force in the rise of Lingala music in the “80s and “90s. His talent made him be likened to great Congolese artists such as Koffi Olomide, Papa Wemba and Madilu.

Le General was one of the Congolese musicians who valued the importance of TV appearance and video clips as a means to be more visible to his fans; always dressed well in unique outfits for particular impressions.

He was banned in 2,000 from performing after fallout with the late DR Congo President Laurent Kabila.

He credits Zaiko Langalanga singers as his influencers who saw him venture into music. However, Tabu Ley was his main inspiration.