Jazz-funk star Manu Dibango dies from coronavirus

Manu Dibango

The artist, real name Emmanuel N’Djoké Dibango, was 86.

Manu Dibango has died today (24 March) from covid-19. The news was shared to his channels and a statement reads: “His funeral service will be held in strict privacy, and a tribute to his memory will be organised when possible.”

The Cameroonian multi-instrumentalist and songwriter was best known for his hits Makossa Man and The Lion of Cameroon. Over the course of his decades-spanning career, Dibango collaborated with the likes of Fela Kuti, Herbie Hancock, Fania All Stars, Bernie Worrell and more. Dibango was also the first chairman of Cameroon Music Corporation and in 2004 he was appointed a UNESCO Artist for Peace.