Tabu Ley Rochereau, born Pascal-Emmanuel Sinamoyi Tabu in 1940, was a pioneering Congolese rumba and soukous singer, songwriter, and bandleader. Composing over 3,000 songs, he modernized the African music scene before later serving as a government minister in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Ngungi, meaning “The Wasp” in Lingala, is a classic African rumba song that united legendary rivals Tabu Ley Rochereau and Franco Luambo Makiadi. Using the wasp as a metaphor, the lyrics criticize gossipers, slanderers, and sensational journalists while celebrating resilience and a shared passion for music. Renowned for its rich lyrics and timeless rumba sound, Ngungi remains one of Congolese music’s most celebrated collaborations.

Listen to the song below.

Audio Tabu Ley Rochereau – Ngungi Download Mp3