Lola Checain: Icon of Congolese Soukous Excellence
Lola Checain, born on August 18, 1942, and passed away on August 10, 1992, he was one of the most talented and respected figures in Congolese soukous music. As a recording artist, composer, and vocalist, he left an indelible mark on the music landscape of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His career, spanning from the 1950s to the 1980s, saw him emerge as a key member of one of Africa’s most legendary bands, TPOK Jazz, where his distinct vocal style and musical compositions helped define the sound of an era.
Early Beginnings and Rise to Prominence
Lola Checain, also known by his full name Lola Djangi Chécain, began his musical career in the 1950s, a time when Congolese rumba and soukous were flourishing. The post-colonial period was marked by a cultural renaissance in Congo, and music played a central role in expressing the hopes and aspirations of the people. Chécain, blessed with a deep passion for music, seized this moment, quickly rising through the ranks to become a pivotal figure in the soukous genre. He honed his skills as both a composer and a vocalist, earning the admiration of peers and audiences alike for his ability to craft songs that resonated with emotion and authenticity.
Key Contributions to TPOK Jazz
Chécain’s association with TPOK Jazz, the iconic band led by the legendary Franco Luambo Makiadi, cemented his place in Congolese musical history. TPOK Jazz was a dominant force in the African music scene during its heyday, and Chécain’s presence added to the band’s dynamic. As part of TPOK Jazz, Chécain contributed significantly to the band’s repertoire, both through his songwriting and his unique vocal delivery. His compositions enriched the musical legacy of the band, adding depth and variety to its sound.
Distinct Vocal Style: The “Deuxième”
Lola Checain’s distinctive vocal style made him a highly sought-after “deuxième” or second voice in many of TPOK Jazz’s compositions. In this role, he often provided harmonic support to the lead vocalist, typically singing the lower parts of vocal harmonies. The role of the deuxième is crucial in soukous music, where harmonies create the rich textures that make the genre so captivating. Chécain’s ability to blend seamlessly with other vocalists while maintaining his distinct tonal quality was a testament to his vocal mastery. His warm, resonant voice added layers of emotion to the band’s songs, giving them a fuller, more rounded sound.
Spoken Interjections: Adding a Unique Flavor
Though Chécain often sang in a supporting role, he managed to stand out by adding spoken comments or interjections in many of TPOK Jazz’s tracks. These spoken parts, known as “animation,” were a staple of Congolese music and allowed vocalists to interact with the audience, injecting humor, social commentary, or simply a personal touch into the music. Chécain’s interjections added an extra dimension to the songs, enhancing the listening experience and drawing audiences into the narrative of the music. His contributions were subtle but significant, enriching the performance and contributing to the storytelling tradition of Congolese soukous.
A Talented Composer
In addition to his vocal prowess, Lola Checain was also an accomplished composer. His original works were regularly featured in TPOK Jazz’s extensive catalog, further solidifying his importance within the band. Chécain had a gift for writing songs that captured the essence of Congolese life—songs that dealt with love, loss, and the complexities of the human experience. His compositions were characterized by their melodic beauty and rhythmic sophistication, traits that defined the soukous genre. As a songwriter, Chécain had the rare ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level, ensuring that his music would be remembered for generations.
Lola Checain’s Legacy: A Lasting Influence on Congolese Music
Lola Checain’s legacy extends far beyond his own lifetime. His contributions to the development of soukous, particularly through his work with TPOK Jazz, have had a lasting impact on Congolese music. Even after his death in 1992, Chécain’s influence continues to resonate, both through his own recordings and through the work of younger musicians who were inspired by his artistry. Notably, his son, Elvis Lola, has followed in his footsteps, embarking on a musical career despite initially training to be a teacher. This passing of the torch from one generation to the next is a testament to Chécain’s enduring influence and the strength of his musical legacy.
Conclusion: A Voice That Shaped Soukous Music
Although Lola Checain may not have been the most prominent face of TPOK Jazz, his contributions to the band and to Congolese soukous music as a whole were indispensable. His ability to support lead vocalists, enhance songs with spoken interjections, and compose memorable music helped shape the sound of one of Africa’s greatest bands. Today, Chécain is remembered as a quiet but powerful force within the world of Congolese music, a man whose talent and dedication left an indelible mark on the soul of soukous. His life and work continue to inspire musicians and fans alike, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
