Francis Bebey one of Cameroon’s respected musicians, and a writer of note helped mentor the young Manu, and Bebey was instrumental in helping to launch Dibango’s musical career.

Manu Dibango and band performing in 2014. Photo: Flickr/ Emerson Marques Pedro

He was one of the founding members of the Zairean band, African Jazz in 1960. But his claim to worldwide fame came after the release of his 1972 single Soul Makossa.

During his legendary career, Manu has collaborated with many other musicians, including Fania All Stars, Fela Kuti, Herbie Hancock, Bill Laswell, Bernie Worrell, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, King Sunny Adé, Don Cherry, and Sly and Robbie.

His love for music and the profession goes beyond his own success. In 2004, he was appointed a UNESCO Artist for Peace after serving as the first chairman of the Cameroon Music Corporation.

In July 2014, he made an 80th anniversary concert at Olympia, France. And more recently was honoured with the title of Special Representative of Francophonia to the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Dibango has released over 70 albums, and he is undoubtedly one of Africa’s most celebrated artists.