Congolese guitar legend Mbuta Nseka, better known as Nseka Huit Kilos, is an iconic figure on the Congolese music scene. Originally from Kinshasa, he began his musical career at an early age and quickly made a name for himself in the industry. Meeting with a passionate and talented artist.
Nseka Eight Kilos has become a nickname that has followed him since his beginnings in music. He tells us where this nickname comes from: “When I started music at the age of twelve, I was the eighth member of the group. Each member was nicknamed by a weight, and I was called Eight Kilos. This nickname has become my calling card and will never leave me.”
His passion for the guitar dates back to his childhood. Unable to afford a guitar, he built his own first instrument with a metal bottle and nylon threads. Although he admits that this homemade guitar didn’t quite look like a real guitar, he learned to play it by watching adults. “It was a great satisfaction for me to be able to play music with my own instrument”, he confides. Eventually he managed to get hold of a genuine Gibson guitar which became his faithful stage companion.
From his beginnings in music, Nseka Huit Kilos knew that it was his vocation and that he wanted to make it his job. “I fell in love with guitar and music in general at a very young age. I was influenced by internationally renowned artists like Jimi Hendrix and James Brown, but also by Congolese and African artists. I always wanted to be like them, to live from my passion and share my music with the public”, he explains.
His first concert, he remembers it like it was yesterday. It was in Kinshasa, in a small club, and he hadn’t even had time to rehearse with the band. Despite everything, he conquered the public from the first notes and received many praises which encouraged him to continue his musical career. He then had the opportunity to collaborate with Papa Wemba, a real revelation for him. This collaboration propelled her career and brought her into the limelight.
Today, Nseka Huit Kilos continues to live his passion for music. He recently participated in the Carnegie Hall festival in New York and continues to enchant audiences with his catchy melodies. His guitar is still there, faithful companion of his stage performances. For him, music is much more than a profession, it is an extension of himself, an integral part of his life.
Nseka Huit Kilos embodies the richness and diversity of Congolese music. His talent and his passion are a source of inspiration for young musicians. It reminds us that music can transcend barriers and connect us deeply to our essence.. Whether on stage or through his compositions, Nseka Huit Kilos continues to thrill hearts and enchant souls