Abeti Masikini

Élisabeth Finant (Known as "La Tigresse de Kinshasa")

Master Vocalist, Composer, Showband Leader, Cultural Icon

Born 1954-11-09

Stanleyville (Kisangani), Congo

Passed Away 1994-09-28 Villejuif, France, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Lifespan 39 years old

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Notice / Correction

"A woman on stage must possess the courage of a tigress and the pride of an African queen."

Archival Overview

Trailblazing musical diva hailed as 'The Tigress of Kinshasa' (La Tigresse) who conquered international stages from Paris Olympia to Carnegie Hall, fusing Congolese rumba with soukous, soul, and shimmering theatrical shows.

Biographical Record

Élisabeth Finant was born on November 9, 1954, in Stanleyville, daughter of assassinated Lumumbist governor Jean-Pierre Finant. Entering music under the name Abeti Masikini, she stunned Africa in 1973 with her smash debut album Saïli.

In 1973, she became the first African female artist to perform a sold-out headline show at the legendary Olympia Hall in Paris. Leading her band Les Redoutables, she recorded iconic hits including 'Motema Pasi', 'Je Suis Fâchée', and 'Scandale de Jalousie', mentoring stars like Mbilia Bel and transforming the visual glamour of modern African pop.

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Rest in Peace Forever remembered and cherished Your legacy lives on in all of us With deep gratitude for your life and light

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Final Resting Place

Perpetual Memorial

Gombe Cemetery (Cimetière de la Gombe)
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

                         GPS: -4.3120, 15.2950                    

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