Meridjo Belobi

Jean-Marie Belobi Ng'ekerme (22 December 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 popular music.

Early years and musical debut Jean Marie Belobi Ng'ekerme was born on 22 December 1952, in Léopoldville (now Kinshasa), then part of the Belgian Congo (later the Republic of the Congo, then Zaire, and currently the Democratic Republic of the Congo). He grew up in the Kauka neighborhood, located in the Kalamu commune. His father, who originally came from Mangai in Idiofa Territory and employed as a mechanic at ONATRA, played a significant role in shaping his early path by enrolling him at the Institut Supérieur des Techniques Appliquées (ISTA) with the intent of preparing him to take over his position after retirement. However, Belobi eventually chose to leave his studies and dedicate himself to music. He also briefly played for the B.C. Onatra basketball team in his early years.

Legacy Belobi 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.

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