San Francisco Bay Area-based independent label MansMark Africa announced the upcoming release featuring the final studio work of legendary world music icon Babatunde Olatunji.
In 2000, Baba began recording his final studio project, initially titled "Safari to Musical Africa, "on the MansMark Africa label. Sadly, his untimely passing in 2003 made it clear that the then-unfinished album would in fact be Babatunde Olatunji‘s posthumous fond farewell. Upon completing his dear friend’s final legacy, MansMark CEO Ayo Ajisebutu (Prince Ayo) became inspired to rename the album "Spirit of Musical Africa", in reference and reverence to a cultural and musical icon whose spirit will forever resonate within the rhythmic beat of the African drums.The upcoming album varies from Baba’s other recordings as it weaves various musical influences with traditional sounds. The album features the Senegalese super star Youssou N’Dour, Miles Davis’ performances, Sikiru Adepoju, Airto Moreira, and Rasaki Aladokun.
Spirit of Musical Africa is set for release in summer 2008. Singles from the album will be released digitally on April 6 and 7 to mark Babatunde Olatunji’s birthday on April 7. On April 6 MansMark will give away one of Baba’s new songs for free on www.mansmark.com
A portion from proceeds from the album sales will be used to fund causes that Babatunde Olatunji worked on.
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central
