Meridjo Belobi

Jean-Marie Belobi Ng’ekerme (December 22, 1952 – 27 August 2020), known professionally as Meridjo Belobi, was a Congolese drummer and songwriter. Known for being a long-time drummer for Zaïko Langa Langa, he is credited as the creator of the Cavacha drum pattern, which gained international recognition and is considered as a major contribution to African music.

Early years and musical debut
Jean Marie Belobi Ng’ekerme was born on December 22, 1952, in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

He spent his childhood in the Kauka district of the Kalamu commune. His father, a mechanic from Idiofa who worked at ONATRA, influenced his early life notably by sending him to the Institut des Techniques Appliquées (ISTA) to replace him in case of retirement, but eventually left his studies to pursue a career in music. During his youth, he became involved in Xavérie, a cultural and educational movement guided by Catholic priests, where he participated in various cultural events and played percussion.

He had a brief stint at the B.C. Onatra basketball team at a young age.

In 1971, Belobi joined the youth band Zaïko Langa Langa which rehearsed at the Hotel Azur, not far from his home. Initially a percussionist, he transitioned to the role of drummer after Bimi Ombale switched from drumming to singing. His stage name, Meridjo, was coined by fellow musician Papa Wemba, who reversed the syllables of "John Mary," a nickname Belobi was known by in his neighborhood.

Innovation and musical career
In 1973, during a trip from Brazzaville to Pointe-Noire, Belobi innovatively created the Cavacha drum pattern. Inspired by the rhythm of the train's wheels, he developed this pattern on the snare or hi-hats. The Cavacha beat quickly became influential in Africa and later spread internationally, being incorporated into various musical genres. This innovation earned him the nickname "Masini Ya Kauka" (the Engine of Kauka in Lingala).

He faced a significant personal challenge in 1974 when he was imprisoned for 21 months at Ekafela prison for violating a curfew imposed on young Zairians. After his release, he recorded "Sangela," his first single with Zaïko Langa Langa, and continued to contribute to the band's success.

Throughout the 1980s, Belobi played a crucial role in Zaïko Langa Langa. He was part of the group's administrative team alongside Jossart N'Yoka Longo and other prominent members. In 1985, he and fellow drummer Bakunde Ilo Pablo pioneered the concept of double-drumming in Congolese rumba. Belobi's talents took him on international tours with Zaïko, including a notable tour of Japan in 1986, prestigious halls in Europe and America as well as many sold-out stadiums in Africa.

Despite internal conflicts within Zaïko Langa Langa in 1988, which led to the formation of Zaïko Langa Langa Familia Dei, Belobi remained with the original band. During his tenure, he released several successful songs, including "Bisengo Na Bango," "Mosafi," "Bolingo Aveugle," "Matondo," "Nyongo Ekeseni," "Ize Bola," "Ben Betito," and "Mofiti."

After leaving Zaïko Langa Langa in 1999 due to administrative tensions, Belobi co-founded Zaïko Langa Langa Universel with Oncle Bapius and Modeste Modikilo. The group released one album, "Etumba Ya La Vie," featuring the eponymous title track composed by Belobi.

Death
He died on August 27, 2020 (aged 67), at the Liège University Hospital in Belgium after a prolonged illness. He was interred at the Nsele Necropolis in Kinshasa on October 15, 2020. In recognition of his contributions to music and culture, he was posthumously awarded the Order of Civic and Artistic Merit.

Legacy
Meridjo Belobi's influence extended beyond his performances. He inspired many prominent Congolese drummers, including Ramatoulaye Ngolali of Extra Musica and Papy Kakol of Wenge Musica Maison Mère. His creation of the Cavacha drum pattern remains a significant contribution to the world of music.