Little is known about the Iconic African musician Papa Wemba born Jules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba who collapsed and died while performing in Ivory Coast.
Wemba had a successful career spanning close to five decades before it was abruptly cut short at the age of 66 while doing what he loved most, entertaining his fans.
The biggest challenge of his music career however, came in 2004 when he was accused in France of running an illegal immigration scheme, in which he was suspected of receiving payment to procure visas for Congolese nationals who entered France as part of his road crew.
While in court, the Congolese artist admitted being paid by seven people to smuggle them into France, but said that the other cases were organised without his knowledge.
The French police became suspicious when 90 DRC nationals who flew to Paris claimed to be his band members but had no musical instruments or stage clothes.
Papa Wemba served four months in detention but was released even after being found guilty of the offence.
A criminal court in Paris handed down a 30-month term with 26 months suspended after convicting the then 55-year-old musician of "assistance to the illegal entry or residence of foreigners".
It was in effect a non-custodial sentence that let the musician walk free but after paying a fine of Sh1.1 Million (10,000euros).
Some of the most popular hits of all time by the the rhumba king include: Show me the way, Yolele, Sai Sai among others.
Papa Wemba Soared to fame with the bands Zaiko Langa Langa, Isifi and La Musica, and will be remembered for discovering another music giant, Koffi Olomide, who was part of his band before starting a solo career.
The fallen singer has entertained his Kenyan fans several times with his most recent performance being at the 2014 Koroga Festival in Nairobi.
Read Also: VIDEO: Musician Papa Wemba Dies After Falling on Stage
