Lubango: A 28-minute documentary on the life and work of the “King” of Angolan music, Elias Dya Kimuezo, was screened on Friday at the Mediateca in Lubango, Huila province, to highlight the musician’s historical and cultural career. Entitled “Elias Dya Kimuezo – Viagens,” the documentary was produced five years ago by Francisco Pedro, a cultural journalist of the Novembro-EP editions. Its screening is part of the celebrations of the National Day of Culture and the 89th birthday of the artist, which will be celebrated on January 2.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Francisco Pedro emphasized that the tribute to the icon of Angolan popular music comes at an opportune time, as Dya Kimuezo is an inescapable figure that spans generations and continues to inspire with a voice that remains relevant and modern. He noted that Dya Kimuezo continues to be a cultural and musical reference in Angola, with recordings characterized by authenticity and innovation.
Pedro also highlighted Elias’ interaction with the Cape Verdean community in the Sambizanga neighborhood, which influenced his interpretation of traditional Cape Verdean songs. He also mentioned Elias’ lesser-known stories, such as his performance as an athlete, which enrich the artist’s narrative. The tribute is part of a trilogy of commentaries being developed to expand the approach in two other documentaries about the singer-songwriter, to be released later this year in Huila and Luanda.
With a repertoire of 50 catalogued songs, Elias Dya Kimuezo is described as a pillar of Angolan culture, whose work extends beyond music and has a significant impact in the political sphere and in the construction of the national cultural identity.
Elias Jos© Francisco, known artistically as Elias Dya Kimuezo, was born on January 2, 1932, in the Mar§al district of Luanda. Orphaned at the age of seven, he lived with his paternal grandparents in Sambizanga, where he learned to communicate fluently in his native language, Kimbundo. In 1969, he represented Angola at a folklore festival in the Portuguese provinces, earning significant acclaim and recording opportunities. His success led to him being recognized as the Best Angolan Songwriter by the National Tourism Training Center and being awarded as one of the 11 most outstanding personalities in Luanda in 1972. Dya Kimuezo is celebrated as the king of Angolan popular music for the quality of his work and the consistency of his performances.