KIZABA

Lionel KIZABA, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, is the 2024–2025 Radio-Canada Revelation and a pioneer of Congolese electro music. Based in Montreal and of Congolese heritage, this Canadian artist has forged a unique musical path that takes international audiences on a journey through his futuristic soundscape.

Blending French, English, Kikongo, and Lingala, his compositions break through linguistic and cultural boundaries. Proud of his African roots and Canadian identity, he brings his cultures to the global stage with passion and creativity.

His critically acclaimed album "Kizavibe" earned several nominations at the 2024 JUNO Awards, including World Music Album of the Year. He was also nominated at the Dynastie Awards in the categories International Artist or Group of the Year, World Music Artist or Group of the Year, and Francophone Artist or Group of the Year, as well as at GAMIQ in the World Album/EP category.

In 2022, he launched his first U.S. tour, performing on the main stage of the iconic New Orleans Jazz Festival, sharing the lineup with legends like Lionel Richie, CeeLo Green, Charlie Wilson, and The Foo Fighters.

His international career has taken him to major events such as the Festival International de Louisiane, Africa Oyé (UK), MAPAS (Spain), Circulart (Colombia), WOMAD Chile, Mundial Montréal, M for Montréal, Seoul Music Week (Korea), Global Toronto, and shows in China and Taiwan.

Kizaba skillfully blends ancestral vocals with the vibrant sounds of Congolese soukous and Afrobeat, all rooted in an afro-punk philosophy and framed by a futuristic aesthetic.

With the release of his new album "Future Village" on April 12, 2025, he takes listeners even deeper into a sonic universe where tradition meets innovation. He will perform both of his albums, "Kizavibe" and "Future Village", live at WOMEX 2025 in Tampere, Finland, on October 25, 2025, at one of the world’s leading global music industry events.