Veteran Afro-jazz star Manu Dibango died on Tuesday after contracting the new coronavirus, his representatives have confirmed.
The 86-year-old Cameroonian, best known for the 1972 hit "Soul Makossa", is one of the first worldwide stars to die as a result of COVID-19.
"He died early this morning in a hospital in the Paris region," his music publisher Thierry Durepaire said.
A message on his official Facebook page confirmed that his death had come after he contracted COVID-19.
"His funeral service will be held in strict privacy, and a tribute to his memory will be organized when possible," the message said.
The saxophonist was one of the pioneers of Afro jazz and also fused funk with traditional Cameroonian music.
His biggest hit was the B-side of a song to support the Cameroon football team in the African Cup of Nations but was picked up and popularised by New York DJs.
In 2009, he accused Michael Jackson of borrowing one of his hooks for two songs on the legendary "Thriller" album.
Jackson settled out of court.
Latest Stories
-
Don’t go on strike, let’s negotiate – NLC to TEWU
9 mins -
KNUST’s Prof Antwi-Agyei appointed to UN panel of experts for Resilient Food Systems Report
10 mins -
Bawumia’s promise for free dialysis treatment empty campaign gimmick – Mintah Akandoh
28 mins -
Former Asante Kotoko coach Michael Osei passes on at 53
41 mins -
Over 3,600 people from 80 countries gather for Bishop Dag Heward-Mills’ Homecoming Conference
1 hour -
Ghana’s death by galamsey: Who will bell the cat?
1 hour -
Oheneba Adusei Poku
1 hour -
Outgoing Effia MP Joseph Cudjoe supports NPP campaign to retain seat
1 hour -
Enimil Ashon: 2016/2020 promises; Gabby vrs McDan
1 hour -
Education Ministry complicit in expired rice distribution to SHS – Ablakwa
2 hours -
100 years after exile: Seychelles honours Asantehene Prempeh I
2 hours -
UK announces £74m clean cooking initiative, including support for Ghana
2 hours -
Wese Obiabaka awarded honorary senior membership by CIBN
2 hours -
David Ako
2 hours -
Petroleum Commission to reduce Ghana’s 15% participating interest in oil explorations
2 hours