Sista Becky: The First Lady of Congolese Rap
Early Life and Influences
Sista Becky, born Rebecca Kalonji in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, emerged as a powerful voice in Congolese hip-hop. Her introduction to rap was heavily influenced by French hip-hop, particularly the work of Diam’s. During her school days, she honed her skills through freestyle battles, laying the foundation for her unique artistic identity.
Breaking Into a Male-Dominated Genre
In 2016, Sista Becky’s debut single, “Mr Rap,” marked the beginning of her professional career. The song’s success earned her the nickname “First Lady” of Congolese rap, a genre historically dominated by men. That same year, she won the “Best Female Artist” award at the Rap de Kin Awards, cementing her place in the industry.
Advocacy Through Music
Sista Becky’s music is more than entertainment; it’s a tool for advocacy. In 2017, she performed at a concert organized at the Vélodrome Stadium in Kinshasa to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and combat violence against adolescents. This event, co-hosted by organizations like Cordaid and the World Bank, showcased her commitment to social causes. She later collaborated with Lexxus Legal on the impactful song “Zwa Nga Bien,” furthering her advocacy work.
Major Achievements and Collaborations
Throughout her career, Sista Becky has been involved in numerous projects and collaborations. She co-founded the recording studio Kinshasound, creating opportunities for local artists. In 2020, her single “Il fait semblant,” featuring Innoss’B, became one of the top-played tracks in African clubs. That same year, African Vibes named her one of the 10 elite musicians of the DRC.
The “Apéritif” Album
In December 2021, Sista Becky released her debut album, “Apéritif,” featuring seven tracks. The album includes collaborations with artists like Gally Garvey and DjP2n, showcasing her versatility. Songs like “Il fait semblant” highlight her ability to blend hip-hop with Congolese rhythms, appealing to a wide audience.
A Global Impact
Sista Becky’s influence extends beyond the DRC. Her music has been featured in playlists such as “Du Rap 100% Francophone,” curated by Radio France’s Mouv’. Her style, blending hip-hop with Afrobeat and Congolese sounds, has resonated with fans across francophone Africa and beyond.
Recognition and Awards
Sista Becky’s talent has not gone unnoticed. Along with her Rap de Kin Award, she was nominated for “Best Urban Clip” at the Beat Street Awards in Brazzaville. These accolades reflect her growing prominence in the African music scene.
Paving the Way for Future Generations
As “Princesse Bantou,” Sista Becky is more than a rapper; she’s a trailblazer. Her journey from freestyling in Kinshasa to becoming an international star serves as an inspiration for young artists, particularly women, in the DRC and beyond. Through her music, she continues to break barriers and uplift her community.
