Swag at 66: Top 10 fashion styles that defined elegant music star Papa Wemba

By Wesley Kipng'enoh (@Wess_kipp)

The world is currently mourning the death of an African music icon, Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba Popularly known as Papa Wemba.

“Sometimes clothes are more than a fashion statement. Sometimes music is more than just what it sounds like," this is how an American writer described the late Papa Wemba's music and sense of fashion.

The 66-year-old collapsed on Saturday night while performing on stage in Abidjan and was later pronounced dead, ending almost five decades of successful music career that redefined his own home country and the African continent.

Born in June of 1949 in the town of Lubefu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Papa Wemba rose to become one of the most influential musicians that broke from the popular Soukous band of Zaiko Langa Langa.

But besides music, Papa Wemba had a distinct sense of fashion. He had an uptown and outgoing style that rejuvenated him and perhaps brought his fans closer.

Looking at tributes paid by thousands on social media, it was clear from the photos that Papa Wemba was keen on what he was wearing. It is no wonder he headed a fashion group called Society of Tastemakers and Elegant People: A group that was well known for its stylish suits and hats.

Papa Wemba leaves behind a widow,  Marie-Rose Luzolo, six children and some of the best music beats the African continent has ever danced to.

Here are couples of photos that display his fine taste in fashion.