Ya Levis is truly the product of several legacies. The legacy of Congo, which he proudly carries despite having spent much of his life in France; of music, which has flowed through his veins since childhood; and the legacy of his parents, whose love continues to shape the way he lives, creates, and raises his own children.
Within the first few minutes of our conversation, one thing becomes clear: behind the melodies that have captivated millions around the world is a man guided by the simple yet powerful values of love, family, faith, and authenticity. This authenticity has made his music transcend borders, languages, and generations.
A Childhood Surrounded by Music
For Ya Levis, music was never a late discovery, it has always been part of his family history. The artist explains that he began developing an interest in music at the age of five or six. His father, who was actively involved in the Congolese music scene, played a decisive role in nurturing that passion.
“My father used to take me to recording studios. He would introduce me to great artists. He showed me how to sing. I grew up surrounded by all of that,” he recalls.
His father wrote for some of the biggest names in Congolese music, exposing Ya Levis at an early age to the creative process, recording sessions, and the world of musicians who shaped generations. Among the artists who influenced him the most was the late King Kester Emeneya.
“He was someone who brought something different. He had a unique style and a very particular approach to melodies and instrumentation.”
That pursuit of originality and staying true to his own sound appears to be reflected in Ya Levis’ own career today.
A Proudly Congolese Identity
Although he was raised in France, Ya Levis emphasizes the importance of the cultural education he received from his parents. According to him, his Congolese roots have never simply been a matter of geography, they are a fundamental part of who he is.
“My parents always wanted to pass down our history, our traditions, and our culture. I grew up in France, but I remained one hundred percent Congolese in my mind.”
This sense of pride is evident in his music, in his relationship with the Lingala language, and in his determination to pass that heritage on to his own children. The “Child King,” or Mwana Mokonzi, already speaks Lingala regularly with his children and plans to take them to the Democratic Republic of Congo so they can discover the land of their ancestors.
“It’s important that they know their roots. It’s important that they understand where they come from.”
When asked to describe Congo in a single word, his answer comes instantly: “Strength.”
The response reflects both his admiration for the Congolese people and his respect for a country that, in his view, continues to demonstrate extraordinary resilience despite the challenges it faces.
Love as the Foundation of His Art
If there is one common thread running through Ya Levis’ work, it is undoubtedly love. Since the beginning of his career, themes of love have occupied a central place in his music. For the artist, this focus is no coincidence, it originates from the family environment in which he was raised.
“My parents gave me an incredible amount of love. I witnessed the love they had for one another and the love they had for their children.”
That personal experience continues to fuel his creative process today.
“Love is the most beautiful thing that exists. It’s a theme I will always continue to explore in my music.”
Beyond romantic relationships, Ya Levis also speaks about love as an essential value today. Ya Levis believes love remains one of the most powerful forces for building healthy relationships and helping individuals grow and thrive.
Fatherhood as a New Source of Motivation
As the father of two young children, Ya Levis acknowledges that parenthood has profoundly transformed his outlook on life. While he continues to pursue a demanding career filled with international travel and performances, he makes a conscious effort to remain present in his children’s lives.
“It’s not easy,” he admits. “Being an artist requires a lot of sacrifice.”
Still, he ensures that whenever he is home, he dedicates himself fully to his children.
“When I come back, I devote myself to them one hundred percent. I know they need to feel their father’s presence.”
For him, professional success only has meaning if it also improves the lives of the people he loves.
“Music allowed me to help my mother and change certain realities. Today, I work just as hard to provide the very best for my children.”
A Deep Relationship with Faith
Throughout our conversation, Ya Levis repeatedly returns to the importance of spirituality in his life. He credits much of this foundation to his late mother, who instilled a deep faith in him from an early age.
“My mother showed me the path of the Lord. I am one hundred percent a believer, and I have never been ashamed to say that.”
This faith influences both his personal life and his artistic career. According to Ya Levis, music possesses a spiritual dimension that is often overlooked.
“Melodies are spiritual. People do not always realize that. Some songs can heal, bring hope, or touch people in ways that are difficult to explain.”
This perspective also explains why he places such importance on remaining connected to himself rather than constantly chasing market trends.
Finding His Own Path in the Music Industry
Over the course of his career, Ya Levis admits he has gone through different artistic phases. Like many artists, there were moments when he felt tempted to follow mainstream trends in order to meet industry expectations. With time, however, he came to realize that his greatest artistic growth happened when he stopped trying to replicate what was working for others.
“At a certain point, I started allowing the spirit to guide me more. I stopped overthinking certain things.”
In his view, the artists who build lasting careers are those who remain authentic from the beginning.
“When you spend too much time following trends, you risk losing part of your artistic soul.”
That authenticity has become one of the defining characteristics of his work today.
A Sound That Travels Beyond Borders
In recent months, Ya Levis has performed across Africa and beyond, witnessing firsthand the growing reach of his music. Most recently in Zambia, he once again experienced the strength of his international audience.
“What takes me around the world is the love of the people.”
He speaks emotionally about being welcomed in countries where he never imagined his music would one day be known. From Zambia to Japan and Australia, he views this global recognition not as a personal achievement but as a blessing.
“I simply accept what God gives me.”
Despite his growing success, he remains committed to staying grounded.
“I know where I come from. I know everything my parents went through. I also know that everything can disappear overnight.”
Congo as a Constant Source of Inspiration
As the Congolese national football team continues to inspire pride among Congolese communities worldwide, Ya Levis watches with excitement as his fellow countrymen achieve success in various fields. Whether in sports, music, or culture, he views every Congolese accomplishment as a collective victory.
“When a Congolese person wins, Congo wins.”
In his view, the country is going through a period when positive stories matter more than ever.
“Congo needs light.”
It is a light he strives to embody through his music, his values, and his commitment to future generations.
Life Lessons: Patience, Faith and Vision
As our conversation draws to a close, we ask Ya Levis what advice he would like to pass on to younger generations. His answer is built around three principles: patience, faith and the ability to speak positively about one’s future.
“You have to believe in what you want to become.”
It is a philosophy inherited from his mother, whom he describes as an extraordinary woman whose love continues to inspire his daily life. Through his journey, Ya Levis demonstrates that a successful music career can be built far more than talent alone. It can also be built on values, identity, family, and a commitment to remaining true to oneself.
It’s precisely that authenticity that explains why his voice continues to resonate far beyond the borders of Congo, France, and even Africa itself.
Photo Credit: @solider.Ant
