Ry-Co Jazz, a Congolese rumba group originating from Léopoldville (now Kinshasa, DRC), was formed by guitarist Henri Bowane in 1958. The name Ry-Co Jazz comes from Rhythmes Congolais. Between 1960 and 1964, the group toured across West Africa, including Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Liberia, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Gambia. They eventually settled in Dakar, Senegal, where they recorded a disc for the Parisian label Vogue. In 1964, Ry-Co Jazz moved to Paris, France, performing frequently and gaining recognition. In 1967, their music reached the Antilles, particularly Martinique, introducing Congolese rumba through the tumbélé rhythm. The group released a studio album titled Rumba 'Round Africa. Ry-Co Jazz disbanded in 1971, with members pursuing solo careers. Guitarist Jerry Malekani died on 18 July 2011.
