Master the Rhythms That Define Central African Guitar

The sound of Central African guitar is unmistakable—fluid, intricate, and deeply expressive. It’s the lifeblood of Congolese Rumba, Soukous, and Sebene, styles that have influenced musicians across Africa and beyond. From the hypnotic grooves of Franco Luambo Makiadi to the electrifying riffs of Dr Nico, these guitar styles are built on a foundation of rhythmic mastery, melodic creativity, and a groove so infectious, it’s impossible to ignore.

This course takes you deep inside the rhythms and techniques that shaped Central African music. Led by Kinshasa-born guitarist Jeannot Bel, you’ll develop the coordination, phrasing, and feel necessary to play these styles authentically. Whether it’s the rolling triplets of Sebene, the call-and-response melodies of Rumba Odemba, or the pulsing grooves of Makossa and Zouk, you’ll gain the skills to play like the masters while making the style your own.

This isn’t just about learning licks—it’s about understanding the culture, the movement, and the rhythmic energy that makes Central African guitar so powerful. If you’re ready to transform your playing, this course will give you the tools, the knowledge, and the groove.

Key Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Develop a Strong Rhythmic Foundation

Understand Makossa, Sebene, Rumba, and Zouk rhythms.
Learn to lock in with the rhythm section for a tight groove.
Master African triplet phrasing for authentic feel.

Expand Your Chordal and Harmonic Skills

Explore Trois Temps, Quatre Temps, and Sept Sept chord progressions.
Apply interval-based lead guitar techniques used by Franco and Dr Nico.
Understand the harmonic movement of Congolese Rumba and Salsa.

Play with Authenticity and Confidence

Develop hybrid picking techniques for fluid Sebene lead lines.
Master the role of rhythm guitar in a full band setting.
Learn to phrase melodies within the groove, adapting to different tempos and feels.

Understand the Cultural and Historical Context

Trace the evolution of Central African guitar from its roots in Cuban Son to its modern-day impact.
Study the styles of legendary guitarists like Franco, Dr Nico, and Tabu Ley.
Discover how electric guitars, radio, and political change shaped the sound of the region.

Sample Lessons

Meet Your Tutor: Jeannot Bel

Born in Kinshasa, DR Congo, Jeannot Bel grew up immersed in the sounds of Central African music. His journey began with a homemade two-string guitar, built from a piece of wood, a tin of milk, and a bicycle cable. Determined to master the instrument, he studied the styles of local musicians and learned from his cousin, rhythm guitarist Dawa Lusamba.

Through these connections, he was able to study firsthand with pioneers like Roxy Tshimpaka, Franco, and Pepe Felly Manuaku. From a young musician sharing an acoustic guitar with friends to a respected professional, Jeannot has become a leading figure in the style. He now tours globally with Kanda Bongo Man’s band and other icons of African guitar music.

With a deep understanding of Sebene, Rumba, and modern Soukous, Jeannot bridges tradition with innovation. His expertise makes him the perfect guide to unlocking the rhythmic and melodic intricacies of Central African guitar.

The Ultimate Learning Experience

Central African Guitar

Join Jeannot Bel on a journey through the origins of Central African Guitar music in this 1 hour 40 minute online course. There's Soukous, Sebene, Zouk, Rumba, Kidagudagu, Mutuashe, Makossa and more styles to learn on rhythm and lead guitar.

Interactive On-Screen Notation

Learning new skills is easier with our innovative, interactive tools. Access on-screen notation, tablature, animated fretboard diagrams, variable tempos, and more today.

Masterclass

Take part in the next session live and receive immediate feedback and answers about anything Rumba music related from Jeannot Bel.

African Backing Tracks

Put your new techniques into practice and Jam on recordings by the World Music Method tutors over different African grooves including Soukous, Zouk and Afrobeat.