Passion or Profession: Singer

Period: 1953–

Kangala was born into a musical family. At the age of 17, she and her five brothers formed a musical group and were soon discovered in a national contest seeking new talent. Kangala was the standout member of the group and soon launched a solo career. Her musical style encompasses funk, soul, salsa, rumba, and local folkloric sounds. She sings her eclectic songs in several African languages, English, Spanish, and French. Today she is one of her country’s most famous performers.