In the Democratic Republic of the Congo today, nearly sixty years after his first hit record, Wendo Kolosoy, affectionately known as "Papa Wendo," remains a well-known and beloved musician. Renowned for his development of Congolese rumba-a popular musical style that blends rumba, beguine, waltz, tango, and cha cha cha-Wendo is still active, now in his 80's, continuing to perform and to record albums of his distinctive songs and dance music.

ON THE RUMBA RIVER introduces us to this legendary musician, along with veteran members of his band, the Victoria Bakolo Miziki Players-including Antoine Moundanda (thumb piano), Joseph Munange (saxophone), Mukubuele Nzoku (guitar), and Alphonse Biolo Batilangandi (trumpet) - who recount their own musical experiences and attest to their personal and professional respect for Wendo. The film also treats us to musical performances by the group, in rehearsals, impromptu jam sessions, and lively public performances.

The film's exploration of the history and continuing popularity of Congolese rumba is set against a backdrop of political turmoil that has afflicted this African nation for decades, from the repressive regime (1965-1997) of Mobutu Sese Seko, an ongoing civil war, and a fragile contemporary peace. Extended views of Kinshasa slums and the rusted hulks of sunken boats along the Congo River reveal the physical devastation and grinding poverty of the Congo, and Wendo, in a reflective moment, laments the sad state of his country brought about by greedy politicians and fratricidal warfare.

ON THE RUMBA RIVER emphasizes the importance of music in such a strife-torn society. The joyous and even transcendental nature of Wendo's Congolese rumba has long helped to spiritually sustain a people who have suffered the consequences of political oppression, economic exploitation, poverty and civil war.

"Through this film, one discovers the hidden face of this great star...Jacques Sarasin's film is a veritable historical document on the life of someone considered the guardian of the secrets of Congolese music."—Ferdinand Kato, Groupe de Presse l'Avenir

"The film captures the daily life of the founder of the Congolese rumba in the company of thirty musical artists...The emotion is pure. The sadness also...One cannot speak of modern music without evoking the name of Wendo Kolosoy."—Le Potentiel

"Key to the film's power is its total involvement in Wendo's music-making and its assumption of an intelligent audience that doesn't require loads of explanatory material about the Congo's history, politics and culture. Pic will prove a big draw with World and African music crowds as well as doc lovers and those interested in current African affairs."—Variety