Fiston Lusambo

Fiston Lusambo, also known as Ngoy Lusambo, is a UK-based musician originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo. In his home country, he was known by his artist name Fils à Papa. Fiston is a versatile guitarist, composer, producer, arranger, music programmer, and recording engineer. He is a member of the Afro-electronic band Afriquoi, which brings together five members from diverse backgrounds, including Gambia, Congo, and the UK. He also serves as the band coordinator for Zong Zing All Stars and is open to music collaborations, having worked on numerous projects with various artists.

Trained at the prestigious music school I.N.A in Kinshasa, Fiston’s musical journey began at the age of 13, inspired by his father, Yaka Antoine, a former member of African Jazz alongside legends like Grand Kallé and Rochereau. At 15, Fiston joined his first professional band, Kanako, and later played with notable groups such as Ototale Zangala and Gerald Madiata's Bisengo. His passion for traditional music led him to travel across Congo's villages, studying tribal sounds before moving to Kenya in 1991, where he performed with Samba Mapangala’s Virunga. Since relocating to the UK, Fiston has showcased his talents in the band Baboma Combat and collaborated with renowned artists and producers such as Grace Jones, Hot Chip, and Kasai Allstars. He has performed and recorded in various cross-cultural projects, including work with Kanda Bongo Man, Defao, and Bozi Boziana, and contributed to initiatives like Ketebul Music's Kenya Collaboration, which united tribal artists in creating a unique fusion of sounds. Passionate about music education, Fiston conducts workshops and shares his expertise with aspiring musicians. He loves traveling, exploring diverse music styles, and creating new ideas, all while maintaining a deep connection to his faith.