Afro-Funk Pioneer Manu Dibango Dies At 86 From COVID-19

Manu Dibango, one of pioneers of Afro-funk music, passed away on Tuesday at age 86 in Paris, France. Representatives for the artist, best known for his 1972 hit “Soul Makossa,” announced on his social media accounts that his death was caused by coronavirus (COVID-19). 

“It is with deep sadness that we announce you the loss of Manu Dibango, our Papy Groove” a statement on his official Facebook read. 

https://www.facebook.com/ManuDibangoOfficiel/posts/2643947235837697

Dibango is among the first global musicians to die from the coronavirus pandemic. A public memorial will be “organized when possible.” 

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Various musicians have posted tributes to the late artist on their social media accounts:

I first crossed paths w/ the great Manu Dibango in Paris back in the 50’s & had the great honor of seeing him 1 last time this past summer when he came backstage after my concert (also in Paris)…His contributions to music as we know it today are unparalleled, &… pic.twitter.com/05dgPVkS3o

— Quincy Jones (@QuincyDJones) March 24, 2020

Tweets by Niska_Officiel

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Dear #ManuDibango, you’ve always been there for me from my beginnings in Paris to this rehearsal just 2 months ago! You re the original Giant of African Music and a beautiful human being. This coda of #SoulMakossa is for you! pic.twitter.com/3pGoICwjCn

— Angelique Kidjo (@angeliquekidjo) March 24, 2020

OH NON PAS TOI MANU DIBANGO. J'ai pas les mots pour traduire toute ma tristesse. Tu as été un grand frère, une fierté pour le Cameroun et pour l'Afrique toute entière. Une immense perte ! RIP le Roi de la Makossa et Génie de la Saxo. YN pic.twitter.com/XRJAeVLdiF

— YOUSSOU NDOUR (@YoussouNdourSN) March 24, 2020