Ya Levis Dalwear: The Congolese Melody Maestro
Introduction:
In the heart of the vibrant Congolese music scene emerges a captivating artist, Prince Nemiala, better known by his stage name, Ya Levis Dalwear. Born in Kinshasa in September 1994, Ya Levis has become a prominent figure in the African music industry, enchanting audiences with his mellifluous ndombolo and African rumba ballads. From his early days as part of a dance troupe to earning accolades at prestigious awards ceremonies, Ya Levis Dalwear’s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and a profound love for music.
Early Life and Musical Roots:
Ya Levis Dalwear’s musical odyssey began in the heart of Kinshasa, where he was born into a family deeply rooted in musical traditions. His father, Nico Nemiala, was a singer, and his mother’s hymns resonated in a Catholic Church. At the age of five, the family moved to France, where young Ya Levis spent his formative years. Despite initial reservations from his parents about a career in music, Ya Levis’s passion proved insurmountable.
Inspired by the iconic King Kester Emeneya, a luminary of soukous music, Ya Levis set out to follow in his father’s footsteps. Music became more than a hobby; it became his sanctuary, especially after the untimely demise of his father. In 2009, he joined “The Stars,” a dance troupe, and adopted the moniker “Ya Levis Dalwear.” His journey into music took a more serious turn in 2012 when he embarked on a solo career.
Rise to Stardom:
Ya Levis’s initial solo releases, “Love-Olivia” and “Shabanni,” did not gain significant traction. However, fate took a turn when he caught the attention of MCP Group, who recognized his potential and became his producer. Under the MCP Group label, he released “Canœ kayak” in 2015, a song that resonated with audiences, blending zouk and Congolese rumba influences.
Hits and Evolution:
Over time, Ya Levis Dalwear’s musical style evolved, shifting from zouk sounds to incorporating Congolese rumba with Kizomba. Hits like “Libala” (2018) and “Katchua” (2018) catapulted him to international fame, garnering millions of views on YouTube. His major hits, including “Penzi” and “Mbangu Te,” solidified his position in the African music scene. Notably, he performed as the opening act for Flavor’s concert in Paris and embarked on a successful African tour in 2019.
Family and Discography:
In 2023, Ya Levis welcomed his first son, marking a personal milestone alongside his flourishing career. His discography boasts notable albums like “El Mayalove” (2018), “LCLM: Prélude” (2021), “L’amour change le monde” (2022), and “Mélange des genres” (2022). Each album showcases his versatility and growth as an artist.
Awards and Recognitions:
Ya Levis Dalwear’s talent has not gone unnoticed, earning him prestigious awards such as Best African Act in Diaspora and Best Artiste in African R&B/Soul at the 2022 AFRIMA awards. His appearances in collaborations and nominations in various categories underscore his impact on the global music stage.
Conclusion:
Ya Levis Dalwear’s journey from Kinshasa to international stardom is a tale of passion, resilience, and musical innovation. His ability to blend traditional Congolese sounds with contemporary influences has endeared him to audiences worldwide. As he continues to evolve and contribute to the rich tapestry of African music, Ya Levis Dalwear remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists and music enthusiasts alike.
