Cumbiafrica: A Celebration of New Sounds and Collaborative Journeys

We sit down with Cumbiafrica to celebrate their latest release on Universal France’s Decca. The duo shares insights on their creative journey, their collaborations with DJ HUGEL, and what fans can expect in the near future.

How Has Your Year Been So Far?

Cumbiafrica has been buzzing with activity this year, working closely with their label, Producciones Alé Kumá. “At the beginning of the year, we released the single ‘Carmelita Adiós’ alongside DJ Dean Mickoski,” they say. “More recently, we launched an EP titled ‘Sheel Sheel (Drone Song)’ in collaboration with Gaza Birds Singing, a children’s choir from Palestine.” This EP is part of a larger album, “Canciones de Resistencia” (Songs of Resistance), which reflects their commitment to diverse and meaningful musical narratives.

As summer approaches, Cumbiafrica is ramping up their release schedule, planning to drop a new single every three weeks. “All of these tracks are part of an Afro Latin House album that will be released very soon,” they add, hinting at the exciting musical endeavors on the horizon.

How Did You All Meet? What’s the Story Behind Cumbiafrica?

The origin of Cumbiafrica is as rich as their sound. “We met in Colombia,” they recount. Leo was already a prominent producer there, having collaborated with renowned folkloric figures like Martina Camargo. Lina, having just completed her degree in acting and dramatic arts, had been singing alongside her musical family for years. Their paths converged during an artistic residency in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a nation deeply connected to Colombia’s cultural tapestry. “It’s there that we connected with many artists from the local Afro house scene, and that’s when Cumbiafrica was born,” they reflect.

What Inspired You to Take This Path Sound Wise?

Leo’s direction of an orchestra in Belgium—called De Palenque a Matongé—alongside Congolese guitar legend Dizzy Mandjeku set the stage for their sound. “During the pandemic, we had to scale down to a DJ set with electronic sounds and vocals,” they explain, emphasizing their desire to maintain the traditional elements that evoke both Colombian and African influences. “We wanted to preserve sounds like the marimba and guitar.”

What Have Been Your Biggest Influences on Your Current Sound?

Cumbiafrica’s eclectic sound is a reflection of their wide-ranging influences. “Afro-Colombian music and contemporary African music engage in a dialogue that transcends their common roots,” they explain. Genres like soukous, champeta, and amapiano, along with artists such as Bomba Estéreo, have all played a significant role in shaping their musical direction. Yet, they hold a special admiration for Stromae, whose influence lingers throughout their work.

What Inspired You to Reimagine “Batonga”? What Does That Mean to You?

Their reimagining of “Batonga” is more than just a musical endeavor; it’s a nod to an anthem of African identity and resistance. “It’s an honor to engage with Angélique Kidjo’s iconic work,” they state. They emphasize the importance of dialogue, weaving together Angélique’s voice with Lina’s, bridging Fon and Spanish. The newly written verse symbolizes resilience and strength: “Roots were my feet, my hands branches in bloom. I will walk upright like a tree searching for the sun.”

How Did You Come to Land on Decca as a Label?

The history of Alé Kumá, Leo’s producer project, spans over 25 years and has evolved from ethnic music to contemporary African sounds. Decca Records reached out to Leo, intrigued by his experience and vision for reimagining classic songs, starting with “Batonga.” Their collaboration signals a broader commitment to connecting with diverse African artists.

Why Did You Use Your Alé Kumá Alias Here Alongside Cumbiafrica?

To give the track a distinctly “Latin house” sound, Leo suggested including Cumbiafrica’s unique identity while bringing in Angélique’s original sample. “Many critics see us as an instigator of the Latin house movement,” they say, reflecting on their impactful collaborations, particularly with DJ HUGEL.

Tell Us About Your Work with HUGEL? How Did That Relationship Come to Be?

Cumbiafrica’s connection with DJ HUGEL began during the pandemic, rooted in their shared love for music and collaboration. HUGEL recognized Leo’s work and sought to “reimagine” the song “Morenita,” leading to an unexpected anthem of Latin house that captured the post-pandemic vibe. Their artistic synergy flourished through music videos and tracks like “Águila,” solidifying a partnership that blends cultural richness with contemporary sounds.

What Has Been Your Most Memorable Gig This Year and Why?

Cumbiafrica’s standout moment this year was their performance at the Carnaval de Vinaròs in Valencia, Spain. “We performed in front of 10,000 people, and it was broadcast by local television,” they recall with excitement. The emotional resonance of the audience singing along to even their lesser-known songs created a powerful moment of connection that they’ll hold dear.

What Is Your Studio Setup Like? Any Rare Equipment You Like to Use?

Their current studio, well-equipped and acoustically conditioned, has replaced the nostalgia of their first makeshift studio. Yet, they still cherish their original microphone, a The t.bone RB 500 ribbon mic, which continues to play a role in capturing Cumbiafrica’s vibrant vocals.

What Advice Would You Give to Young Up-and-Coming Producers?

“Listen to musicians,” they emphasize, advising budding producers to engage with traditional musicians who possess an inherent understanding of music. They advocate for learning and embracing diverse musical experiences, stressing that collaboration offers invaluable insights that can enhance a producer’s craft.

What More Can Your Fans Expect from Cumbiafrica This Year?

Fans can anticipate exciting new releases from Cumbiafrica, including collaborations with Decca Records. With ambitious plans to compile an album that features African musicians, they remain dedicated to their essence—connecting cultures through the language of music.

Stream their latest single “Batonga” and prepare for an exciting season packed with new sounds and collaborations that reflect their cultural journey.

Follow their musical adventures, and stay tuned for more from Cumbiafrica!