Congos

Congos is a term with more than one common usage. In geography and demography, it can refer to the people and things associated with the Congo region in Central Africa. The Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Congo-Kinshasa) are neighboring states that share historical and cultural ties. People from these countries are generally described as Congolese. The region’s languages include French in official use, with widespread use of Lingala, Swahili, Kikongo, and Tshiluba; major religions include Christianity and traditional beliefs. The Congo Basin comprises the second-largest rainforest in Africa, and the Congo River is a major waterway that shapes commerce and transport in the region.

In music, The Congos refers to a Jamaican reggae vocal group formed in the 1970s. The group is best known for the 1977 album Heart of the Congos, produced by Lee Perry, which is regarded as a landmark in roots reggae production. The ensemble is noted for rich, multi-voice harmonies and a devotional lyrical style, and they contributed to the development of the genre during the era.

The term may appear in other contexts as a plural form of Congo or as part of names and titles; context is needed to resolve the intended meaning.