It was a sad weekend in the continent following the shocking news that one of Africa’s celebrated musician popularly known as Papa Wemba (born Jules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba) died on stage yesterday.

Papa Wemba (68), who was Congolese origin but had a global appeal was refereed to many as the king of Congolese rhumba, is said to have collapsed and died while performing on Saturday night at the Urban Music Festival in the capital of Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

His pioneering blend of African, Cuban and Western sounds became one of Africa’s most popular music styles.

Papa Wemba had also been in two feature films, Life Is Beautiful (1987) and Wild Games (1997).

Wemba was also a style icon, he was a pioneer of the ‘sapeur’ youth culture marked by its dedication to extravagant fashions

Congolese President Joseph Kabila joined fans across the globe to expresses their condolences.

Disney Hipsters: Sad to hear about the passing of Papa Wemba…many great contributions to the music world, including the AKL and Harambe Music loops

Playing4change:  We say goodbye to another music legend: Papa Wemba “The King of Rhumba Rock” #RIPPapaWemba

Winnie Byanyima :  I salute an African cultural giant Papa Wemba.Through your brand of rumba & sapeur style, u gave confidence, joy 2 million struggling in poverty.

UB 45:  To live is the rarest thing in the world. Rest in Power Papa Wemba.

Laz Jacobs:  Everybody is leaving! RIP Papa Wemba. You “showed us the way.” African music has lost a NOTE never to be found.