Manu Dibango has sadly passed away at the age of 86.
The African jazz and saxophone legend (whose full name is Emmanuel Dibango) died from coronavirus (COVID-19) complications on Tuesday (March 24) in a hospital near Paris, France, according to a statement on his official Facebook page as well as music publisher Thierry Durepaire, Agence France-Presse reported.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the loss of Manu Dibango, our Papy Groove, who passed away on 24th of March 2020, at 86 years old, further to covid 19,” the statement reads. “His funeral service will be held in strict privacy, and a tribute to his memory will be organized when possible.”
The Cameroonian musician and songwriter also played vibraphone. He developed a style combining jazz, funk, and traditional Cameroonian music.
He was best known for his 1972 hit “Soul Makoosa.”
Our thoughts are with Manu Dibango‘s loved ones during this difficult time.
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