In the early 1950s, at a new recording studio called Opika, Kasabele received an opportunity to pursue a career in music.[2] He joined with two of the session guitarists at Opika records, Georges Doula and Albert Yamba-Yamba, to form a combo called Groupe Doula Georges. In 1951 Doula and his band starred in a publicity film for the radio station Voix de la Concorde, which operated under the call letters "OTC." To capitalize on the notoriety gained from the film, the band chose to rename themselves OTC.[4]
In 1960, he established his own label, Subourboum Jazz, which was home to Franco Luambo's TPOK Jazz. Grand Kallé was responsible for striking deals with European record labels to ensure high quality recordings of his band's music for the Francophone market.[5]
In the mid-1960s, Kallé suffered his first major setback when two of his protégés (Tabu Ley Rochereau and Dr Nico Kasanda) left to form their own group called Africa Fiesta.[1] Kallé never recovered from this setback,[1] concentrating on nurturing the talent of singer Pépé Kallé.
Le Grand Kallé died in a hospital in Paris, France, on 11 February 1983. He was buried in Gombe Cemetery in Kinshasa.
Musical influence
Kabasele was one of the great African singers of the twentieth century.[2] He was the first musician to mix Cuban rhythms with a traditional African beat to create what is now known as Soukous. He was also the first African musician to create his own record label.
He has been referred to as the "Father of Congolese Music."[2]
Discography
Albums, including compilations
Merveilles Du Passé – Hommage Au Grand Kalle Vol. 2 (1984, African)
