Batila

ople tend to ascribe to them attributes like "different" "colorful", or "vibrant". Although these words seem like clichés, in this case they are not far from reality. BATILA carries the meaning: "the one who protects, holds together and preserves". Inspired by his ancestors and named after his grandfather, BATILA thus tries to live up to his calling. Supported by guides, inspired by his ancestors and shaped by his strong awareness of his Congolese roots, Batila defined his distinctive timbre and melodic style, which is still reflected in his music today. Batila began writing poetry at the age of 10 and developed a strong relationship with the urban Congolese music of the time. He fell in love with poetry, the distinctive singing of Black voices and the typical Congolese songwriting style, in which, for example, poetry is often written from a woman's perspective or socio-political issues are cleverly wrapped up in love stories. "Don't give up / hold on to what you love" - is the translation of his debut in kikongo and a personal journey to the spirituality of Congo and Blacklove. All songs on TATAMANA were recorded live with his band The DreamBus and many other great musicians between Berlin, Paris and Kinshasa. Do you feel the energy? Wait until you hear the first single NABOYI. It is one of the songs recorded at Sabab Studios in Kinshasa. The studio is located in the basement of the RTNC (Radio Télévision nationale congolaise) headquarters. An imposing skyscraper that became known as "La Cité la Voix du Peuple" during the Mobutu era and at the same time a place of political power struggles, but also part of the history of Congolese art and culture. NABOYI means "I don't want " and
the lyrics are as powerful as the recording location

“... foreign spirituality, nga na boyi....
Mfumu Kimbangu ya nga let them talk, their heaven talk, hell is for us all, you either write the book or you get fooled by their false interpretation - Naboyi

Simon Kimbangu was a Congolese activist and prophet who was killed by the Belgians for trying to enlighten the Congolese people. He is believed to be the reincarnation of the child who was burned with her on Kimpa Vita's back. BATILA brings us closer to the history of his country of origin, reinterpreting it by combining his deep understanding of music, creative writing and hope. As an artist, he makes those lyrics flow as elegantly as melancholically over his light and sophisticated guitar sounds.