LEGENDARY JAZZ AND FUNK MUSICIAN MANU DIBANGO HAS DIED OF CORONAVIRUS

His 1972 song ‘Soul Makossa’ was loved by David Mancuso and sampled by Michael Jackson and Rihanna

Manu Dibango has passed away aged 86 in Paris after contracting COVID-19.

The legendary Cameroonian saxophone player is best known for his 1972 song ‘Soul Makossa’, which was a favourite at David Mancuso’s Loft parties, and also famously sampled by Michael Jackson in ‘Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’’ and Rihanna in ‘Don’t Stop The Music’.

A statement on Dibango’s official Facebook page says: “It is with deep sadness that we announce [to] you the loss of Manu Dibango, our Papy Groove.

“His funeral service will be held in strict privacy, and a tribute to his memory will be organized when possible. If you wish to express your condolences, please write to the following email: manu@manudibango.net.”

Listen to ‘Soul Makossa’ below.