Soul Makossa by Mausiki Scales

"Soul Makossa is a mesmerizing, hypnotic, uptempo AfroFunk Masterpiece with a compelling gravitational groove. This tune beckons the listener deeper and deeper into the rhythmic flow. Soul Makossa, with its funky bass line and terse lyrics, is a song you never want to end. Performing this song live, absolutely guarantees moving bodies on the dance floor."
~Mausiki Scales

Soul Makossa was first released in 1972 by Cameroonian multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Manu Dibango. Emmanuel N'Djoke Dibango was born in Douala, Cameroon and his music compositions earned him the nickname "Pappy Grove".

[Soul] Makossa, means "I will dance" in the Douala language. This tune was a trailblazing track in the early disco era and was such an infectious Afro-Funk groove that it quickly became an international hit - sampled and emulated far and wide.

Manu Dibango's compositions amplified the fervent spirit of Africans whose nation-states were experiencing independence from Western colonial forces, simultaneously deepening optimism and affirming African consciousness in communities throughout the African Diaspora.

Dibango, who became an ancestor in early 2020, covered a vast spectrum of musical styles, from traditional African music to Jazz, Funk, Soul, Afrobeat, Reggae, Gospel, Congolese Rumba and Salsa. His music career spanned over six decades.

Manu Dibango continues to be an inspiration. This version of "Soul Makossa" is a dedication to The Man Himself! Long Live the Funk!
Joyeux Anniversaire/Happy Birthday Manu Dibango!

Mausiki Scales & his band Common Ground Collective have been a staple on the Atlanta scene since the late 90s. With their influence of African sounds like Afrobeat and Hi-Life mixed in with Funk, Blues, Jazz and other Black musical traditions brings an unique irresistible dance filled soundscape.
"WestWest Africa" (July 2020)

mausikiscales.com