By Caroline Nyanga

As he promised his fans, Rumba maestro Ferre Gola gave a thrilling performance that left many asking for more.

The Congolese musician who last performed in Kenya nine years ago brought back nostalgic memories for Rumba lovers.

Ferre who last performed in Kenya in 2001, alongside Congolese maestro Werrason Makiadi Ngiama at Carnivore, got on stage at about 11 pm and performed for more than five hours non stop.

His lead singers Makinu Kombo Chikito, Olenga Makiese Mawesele, Kanda Ngoy, Mabiala Mabele and Makola Linakasi among other musicians belted out verses of their evergreen hits like Vita Imana, Sans Kylo, Qui Virra Verra and Mercure among others. Fans were not only treated to the best of rumba music but also sensational dance styles.

"I am glad that my fans ‘ate’ my music, which I believe is unique and different from what other Congolese musicians have performed in Kenya before. Unlike my counterparts I have mastered the art of good music having been groomed by my ‘father’ Werrason," he said.

Rare treat

The Kora Award nominee is credited for being the backbone of Werrason’s Wenge Maison Mere’s band success just like Didier Masela did with Wenge BC BG 4 by 4.

" I am happy Kenyans love and appreciate my music. It is a sign I am in the right direction and hope to visit the country often to touch base with my fans," he said. Described as one of the best Congolese vocalists, Ferre displayed his skills as he belted songs from his new album Qui est derriËre Toi (You never know who is behind).

He said this was the first time he performed some of the songs on stage since it was released this year. The star started as a member of Wenge Musica 4 by 4.

"At some point in life, one has to grow and move on," he says.

Considered to have one of the smoothest tenors among Congolese musicians, Ferre has worked with a number of popular musicians including Werrason, Defao, Seleo, Bill Clinton and Babi Ndombe, JB Mpiana, Alain Mpela, and Didier Masela among others.

Set back

"The fact that I easily adapt to one’s style of music including the credible voice made most of them interested in working with me," he says.

His first album dubbed San en Terdi released in 2007 is still riding high on the global charts.

Despite having a following, most of his music is not available in Kenya.

He blames distributors for the ‘hiccup’ he says will be corrected soon. Ferre refused to be dragged into rating himself. Asked who is the best among the Congolese musicians, he says: "All of them are talented in their own way".

He however thinks his mentor, Werrason, is "more industrious and wise. I enjoyed working with him most".

Ferre, 33, is married and has one child.