Despite a whirlwind musical journey, Alesh proudly carries his Congolese identity like a flag held high, on stage and everywhere he goes. Driven by the same instinct as other great musicians, he is a prominent figure in his Central African country… a well-earned recognition for this socially engaged artist who was invited to perform at the 2014 Mandela Washington Fellowship. It was there that he had the privilege of meeting then-president, Barack Obama, who already owned a copy of the rapper’s 2010 debut album, La mort dans l’âme. This winner of the 2021 Prix Découvertes RFI can’t get enough of the United States and has swept over the country, from the Big Apple to Florida’s southern tip, with a wave of concerts, quite a feat that opened the door for him to the world of showbiz.

Originally from Kisangani, Alain Chirwisa, aka Alesh, began his musical career in 2002, with the band Hot Boyz. Three years later, he had discovered a deeper inner power that drove his first solo hit single, “Éveil.” Having seen the anguish caused by armed conflict in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, he sought to bear witness through his art, as a shield against the violence and a powerful catalyst to raise awareness. His inspiration pours out through his compelling lyrics that convey a zest for life in the face of unspeakable horrors that no one should have to bow to.

Alesh holds the fate of African youth and their influencers of tomorrow close to his heart. A firm believer in the power of volunteer work, he strongly supports the “Community Service Day” initiative, a colossal project set up by DRC youth to stimulate the communal mutual-aid sector.

Alesh is no pyromaniac but sparks fly when he performs on stage backed by his fiery musicians! A true prince graced with Sape-worthy elegance like his fellow musician, the tenor Koffi Olomidé, also from Kisangani.