The Sebene is a kind of instrumental bridge typically executed on the electric guitar and is a characteristic element of the Congolese rumba

Soukous

Soukous is a dance music genre that originated in the two neighbouring countries of Belgian Congo and French Congo during the 1930s and early 1940s, and which has gained popularity throughout Africa...

. The development of the sebene in congolese music has been credited to both Franco Luambo

Francois Luambo Makiadi

François Luambo Luanzo Makiadi was a major figure in twentieth century Congolese music, and African music in general. He is widely referred to as Franco Luambo or, simply, Franco. Known for his mastery of rumba, he was nicknamed the "Sorcerer of the Guitar" for his seemingly effortlessly fluid...

 and Belgian-born guitarist-producer Bill Alexandre, but it predates both of them with Congolese guitarist Henri Bowane

Henri Bowane

Henri Bowane was an influential figure in the birth of the rumba in the Congo. He was the first professional boss and early mentor to the legendary guitarist François Luambo Makiadi, known as Franco.-Early career:...

being the reputed inventor in the 1940s. In the sebene, one or more guitarists repeat short phrases, while the lead player improvises around the theme.

External links

• Soukous Overview on the National Geographic World Music Webpage