About this event
Jalen Ngonda pays tribute to the rich history of soul music while simultaneously elevating the genre to new heights. With his unique combination of natural charm, musicality, and impressive falsetto voice, he is the soul icon of the 21st century. He follows in the footsteps of Marvin Gaye, Jackie Wilson, and David Ruffin. Ngonda, who hails from the Washington D. C. area, developed a passion for soul at an early age. He taught himself to play the guitar, drums and keyboards, before going on to study at the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, founded by Paul McCartney. In 2022, he signed with Daptone Records, the renowned New York label home to Thee Sacred Souls, Lee Fields and Charles Bradley, among others. In 2023, he made his definitive breakthrough with his debut album Come Around And Love Me, carried by the viral hit single ‘If You Don't Want My Love’. Since then, Ngonda has played on world stages and at festivals such as Glastonbury and Rock Werchter. He has collaborated with Gorillaz and Jordan Rakei and shared the stage with artists such as Freddie Gibbs and Olivia Dean. Doctrine Of Love will be released on 5 June 2026. The album builds on the success of his debut, but takes the sound to an even higher level: a seamless blend of vintage soul and modern sensibility. The lead single, released today, immediately sets the tone. However, it is on stage that Jalen Ngonda really comes into his own. Switching between vocals, guitar and piano, he promises an impressive evening. Come and discover his talent live on 6 October at Ancienne Belgique.
