World Music Wednesday: Staff Benda Bilili

by incognitomusicmagazine

Music for the soul

If I were to tell you that Staff Benda Bilili was started by a group of paraplegic musicians that formerly lived on the streets of Kinshasa, you might think I’m joking. Nope. And this band is certainly no joke. Staff Benda Bilili writes melodic songs that (like a lot of African music) will lift your spirits. I don’t understand the lyrics (aside from the title of the album Bouger le Monde, which means “to move the world”), but I don’t have to. The thing about music is that when you don’t understand the lyrics, you are forced to feel the music. Well, this band will get you to feel the music and they won’t even have to force you. This music will get right inside you and if it doesn’t make you feel better, I don’t know what will. Some music is strictly for the ears. This is music for the soul. Bouger le Monde (Crammed Discs, 2012) will be available Tuesday 3 September.