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Akena Hammagaadji
New York, USA
Thanks for your invitation to share thoughts on the best African CD of 2007. I host an African music programme in New York (www.firstworldmusic.org) and had a top ten list as it is too hard to choose among the many great African music releases in 2007. I try to be objective by including CDs that I so not personally like but I do recognise the artistic merits in lyric quality, musical composition, sound quality etc, so here goes:
1. Titati by Bako Dagnon
2. L'Hiver Peul by Souleymane Diamanka
3. Isabela by Ricardo Lemvo
4. Aman Iman by Tinariwen
5. Red Earth: A Malian Journey by Dee Dee Bridgewater
6. Baba by Adama Coulibaly
7. Bana Congo presents Cafe Noir by Papa Noel
8. Goree by Pierre Akendengue
9. Wayo Bring War by Fire Tongue & Chief Cook
10. L'Africain by Tiken Jah Fakoly
Molakisi
Choma, Zambia
My station manager at the radio station I work part-time, called me up one morning to break the news that Madilu had passed away. In my shock I logged on to BBC News to find out more, only to read about myself under the Madilu blog: one Zambian had written about a Zambian who explains Congolese music on radio and that the gentleman had made him fall in love with Rumba music. Well Madilu was the jab that TP OK Jazz needed in the 80s. djo mpoyi kaninda,ntesa daliest,josky,ndombe,dennis boyume lola checain,later malage delungendo, carlyto lassa,kiesse ndiambu. Madilu's style of singing like a man crying cud only paralleled by Djo Mpoyi. Listen to the post-Franco song ‘Baby’. Listen to the voices Madilu and Djo. Tears would stream down. Madilu was talented though Lutumba accuses him for the breakup of TP OK.
Chris
USA
Lucky Dube’s death was like a bad dream to me, I still can't believe that Lucky passed away. Lucky’s death reminded me of my parents, my father passed away on 15 August 2007 and my mother passed away 10 October 2007, so when my sister called me on the phone and told me about Lucky Dube’s death it reminded me of my parents... I’m from Liberia, Lucky was an idol to all Liberians and specially during the war his music inspired the Liberian nation. Up to now, Dube’s death still gets to me... Lucky is gone but his memories still live on... REST IN PEACE, LUCKY DUBE.
Patrick
London, UK
Lucky Dube was a musical giant with a gentle heart to soothe the heartbroken. His music bears testimony to this. He would stir deep social and political issues to the surface so that people could begin to dialogue about them. He put African reggae on the highest pedestal of international recognition. To some of us who had the opportunity of travelling around the world,his fame and recogntion second to our 'icon'Madiba.
His humility presented through reggae music was heart touching. His lyrics were incisive and never short of depth. His instruments were also melodious. His performance was always from strength to strength.
Many Africans in the Diaspora owened and idolised him. He made us proud, all of us. He made music critics and revellers stand and say 'wow', "can something good ever come from Africa?" I am aware that Lucky was popular in South Africa but outside his country he was a sort of a reggae guru to be lined up along side legends such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh etc.
We as Africans in the Diaspora will forever be indebted to this gentle giant who made us talk with pride about the African accomplishments. Lucky, your bones and flesh are interred but your music will be with us forever. May his family finds solace in the knowledge that Lucky was a member of the world family. No geographic position could contain him to a small village in the northern part of Kwazulu Natal(South Africa. Your pain is the pain the whole world of reggae lovers bears. We thank you for sharing him with us. May your soul rest in peace!!!!!!!!!!
James
NYC, USA
Tata Madilu System, I have been listening to the last testament, 'La Bonne Humeur', the album we will listen to for a long time in memory of your artistry. Madilu was the King of Rumba Congolaise, true rumba odembe. You shall surely be missed but we have Sans Commentaire, Pouvoir, Bonheur and all those hits from TP OK Jazz to put us through these sad days...RIP.
Carmen Anderson
Leamington Spa, England
I was just flicking through the BBC site and came across this sad sad story about Lucky Dube's death. I am ashamed to say that I had never heard of this wonderful man before nor heard any of his music.It's tragic the world we live in today is so needlessly violent and we lose so many good good people. I shall be sourcing some of Lucky's work. I don't listen to reggae at all at home - as a black woman, I feel that's a sad thing. I'm sure my dad and older brother will know of Lucky and will be saddend by these news. My condolences go out to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Kobonyo
Ajman, United Arab Emirates
I am a born again Christian who takes too much pride of being an African. Madilu System sang good songs and tell of the pride of Africa, only hope people who are still alive can know that only JESUS is the way truth and life. I love his songs but you out there please give your life to Christ as i also did and the Lord will bless the family of the deceased because of your salvation. I care about you to who is still alive and can get this message on my comment concerning the death of this my friend. Am a Luo who knew this guy and Franco through my late uncles who where their friends. Dedic yesu cristo asali savisto.
Afrika Mon!, Broadcaster
Esigodini, Matebeleland South, Zimbabwe
Greetings! I host "Your World & Mine" on CKJS 810 AM. This program is designed to showcase the very best of Africa, Caribbean and Latin music. Every Sunday from 10:45 pm to 12:45 pm (CST), music lovers from the huts of KwaZulu, Natal to the Igloos of Labrador music lovers sit deside their radios and computers to listen to some of the most enchanting musicians of our time. Across the street and across the world, you can listen to "Your World & Mine" at at www.ckjs.com Throughout the month of December 2007 I shall produce and broadcast shows dedicated to Lucky Dube, Brenda Fassie, Fela Kuti, Madilu System, Solomon Skuza, Franco and Philani Dube. Although all of these souls are no more, their music has blessed me magnificently! I am very thankful to all of them and their bereveared families. Thank you and congratulations on the BBC for hosting this message bulletin. It's so nice to read different comments and messages of condolences. Keep up the good work.
Davidson Izegaegbe
Nigeria
Dube is a through African to the heart.You can tell this from the form and style of his music. lt is sad he has to be forced out of earth by a bullet. He is gone but his thoughts and feelings linger on. ADIEU THE GREAT LUCKY DUBE!
Nontobeko Dlamini-Cream
Swaziland
Rest in peace, Lucky Dube. Reggae will always live long. Thanks for bringing reggae and rastafarians. LONG LIVE RAGGAE!!!!!!!!
Alexandra
Switzerland
For me Lucky Dube will go into history as one of the biggest prophets the world has ever known... When everyone else was to scared to speak out loud, especially against apartheid, Lucky Dube did. It was him, the ever powerfull message in his lyrics and the unforgetable sweet sound of his music , that tought me and many other people around the world that we may have different colours of skin but we are ONE people. And this is the most wisest and world-changing message that everyone should teach their children so the world could be a much better place tomorrow! Because no matter how many people may still support apartheid, it is the worst thing, that ever happened to mankind, it is ignorant and wrong. But through the life work of Lucky Dube apartheid will soon remain only in the PAST, as one of the most darkest and saddest chapter in the history of the world. Lucky Dube, we'll never forget, you and your message will always live on in our hearts and in the great music you made... I love you!!! Rest in peace. ONE LOVE
Tamsin
London, UK
Lucky, well, even though your physical is no longer with us your music lives on... in my memories... of cousins dancing around me to your music... when i was about 11 years... your music that brought smiles and good times to our days. REST IN PEACE.
Bongo
Lupane, Zimbabwe
We shall sadly miss him. He was one of my favourite artists. We loved everything about him. A son of the soil and a true warrior has left us. R.I.P., brother.
Gloria
Nigeria
Good things they say do not last. Lucky was not just a good thing, he was the best that happened to Africa and African music. He may have died but he'll forever live as long as mortality is concerned. I love you, Lucky, even though I never met you physically your music inspires and will linger through the ages. Goodbye, friend, goodbye.
Faze
London, UK
Maximum respect to Lucky Dube. Your music travelled far and wide, and even reached an Anglo-Arab in the centre of London, and it shall continue to travel... Much peace and many blessings to you, and the family you have left behind... one love.
Nkoyo Bassey
USA
Lucky, physically you are gone, but you live on through your music, your voice is pure, your message is real, no one can miss the message, I love you, Lucky, but God loves you best, the good things of this world they say leave too soon. You were a gift to mankind. Words can't truly describe you but I'll say one thing, you were simple, just for the common man! Adieu, Lucky, adieu.
Prince(DJ)
Rome, Italy
I now know for sure that we have a curse in Africa and unless that curse is been removed we can never meet up with others. This is one of the many cases that makes me regret to be an African. This is not issue of underdevelopment, poverty, over-population or other economic problems. This is pure mental and ignorance. Lucky Dube, Fela Kuti, Alpha Blondy and great Nelson Mandela. These were (are) people who not politically but otherwise had put great sounds into Africa. It is very sad for one to meet one's end ... not natural but such a brutal death in the hands of his own people ... I just hope we know whom he was to us Africans. Lucky Dube for ever.
Damas Kisumbuo
Houston, TX, USA
I am deeply sad to learn that the legendary Lucky Dube died in this violent fashion at his age, in his home country, South Africa. I have been a fan of his music from the first time I heard his voice on the 'Prisoner' album, and so do all my friends. I had an impression that Lucky Dube was well-liked by many people, especially South Africans for what he did as an artist and an ambassador to the world. The first question came to my mind after I learned about his death was what could be the motive behind the killing? Came to find out: robbery, just robbery. Seems to me while South Africa is Africa's powerhouse, it has alot work to do within its borders.
Patrick V
Antwerp, Belgium
Every time when sucha tragedy happens I ask myself why why why. Even when I get older now (I'm 46) tears are falling, never gonna get used to this. And you, Lucky Dube, you were one of those people who showed the world that there is not only violence and hate among us. You're gone now but the power what was inside you is still with us. Thanks for so many happy moments with you. You gave me wisdom and happiness, and black or white, it's what you feel inside you that's important.
Adeola Johnson
London
A common pattern. Many of the revolutionary artistes are outed by the state - John Lennon is another apt example. Hopeful the tide is turning. Peace and progress to Mr Dube's family - we will carry on your work. INSPIRE.
Joel Mariano
Montreal, Canada
So sad that Lucky was killed that way. All my smpathy to his family. I loved his music and l found messages of peace and love. By the time the apartheid was still on, he stood up with his lyrics . May his soul rest in peace.
Evalyn
Minnesota
Lucky Dube is my favorite Reggae artist. I want to pass my condolences to the Dube family. I was lucky enough to see Lucky Dube perform live in MN. Most recently, he performed live in Minneapolis a couple of months ago. He came across as a gentle spirit who cared deeply about the social issues affecting children and Africa. He was a brilliant musician and an ambassador of peace and understanding. May his soul rest in peace.
Sherie
New York
Well, first of all, I want to send my condolences to Lucky Dube's family. Words can't explain what I feel for you all. Lucky Dube really touched me with his music. He was truly a blessing. May God watch over you and bless you all. R.I.P Lucky Dube...You will truly be missed, but never will you be forgotten.
Omeiza
USA
How long shall we kill our prophets?
Owen
Birmingham, UK
I got a call from a friend in Ghana who broke the sad news to me that Lucky had been slayed. Just like Peter Tosh and Joseph Hill of Culture. My eyes filled with tears for real! How long must we kill our prophets? Yeah, Rasta never dies. Amani na upendo Lucky; peace and love.
Carole
England
My heart goes out to the family of Lucky Dube. I am so sad that the world has lost a conscious man, a brilliant man of reggae and a man of family values. It is a very sad way for a man like Lucky Dube to leave. R.I.P. Lucky Dube - always and forever remembered.
Nattyride
Bulawayo
At first it was difficult for me to believe for i thought it could be nothing other than a dream. How can any sensible person so crassly kill a man like Lucky? A person whose aim was to promote love, unity and justice. Now that he has parted ways with this crazy world I just wonder who is going to take his as the African Reggae Ambassador. Rest in peace, Ras, this is what the South Africans ARE teaching the world!!!!!!!
Azah
PA
Mr Lucky, you shall truely be missed. Each word of your songs carries a special meaning to me. Your music shall play on forever. Rest in Peace, Sir Lucky Dube
Mrs Hooks
USA
I am a Liberian living in the United States. I can remember in 1999 Lucky performed in Liberia and it was a joy to see him because his music in Liberia during the civil war were songs of hope. We will miss you, Lucky. As jesus once said a prophet is never respected in his home. Those that took you away from us will face judgment very soon. To your children and wife, we asked that you keep our star alive forever.
David L. Lukudu
Padak, South Sudan
My sincere condolences to the family and relatives of Lucky Dube as well as his fans the world over. His music has been and will always be uplifting; he lives through it. The only time I saw him performing was at a stadium in Nairobi in 1994, when he made a comment that the apartheid regime in South Africa may have come to an end, but that apartheid was still in the minds of the people. Peace and unity and no to racism in memory of Dube! Rest in peace, Dube!
Becky Stickland
Leicester, Leicestershire, UK
I am truly shocked and gutted that we have lost one of the most amazing and inspiring musicians of our time. I was lucky enough to see him play live earlier this year in a small venue in Leicester. What I loved about his music is that it was honest and real, beautiful and had meaning without any hint of pretension. My favourite Lucky memory is travelling in Tanzania with a friend - we were discussing race and colour and frustrated as to why people always had to differentiate and judge us. Simultaneously we burst into 'one people, different colour'. Despite the language barrier and culture differences between this new friend and I - we could share a meaning through music. Rest in peace and what an unnecessary vast lost to the world. Becky x
Roberto C. Alvarez-Galloso,CPUR
Miami, Florida, USA
My condolences to the family of Lucky Dube and South Africa on the senseless killing of Lucky Dube.
Matt
Aberdeen
Great website and good on you for promoting African music. I want to get more information on this new reighning artist in Namibia that won the best kwaito at the Channel O Spirit of Africa awards. Could you help?
Willie Betina
Port Vila Vanuatu
I`m so sad when I heard of Lucky Dube's death. I love his music, I am totally in love with his music. May your soul rest in peace.
Utikili Kwaghbee
Benue State University, Nigeria
Tears flew down my cheeks when I heard of Lucky Dube's tragic death. How can you murder such a peaceful and innocent man, a man who spent all his life for the course of humanity? May God give his children the fortitude to bear their father's departure. The South African government must do more to protect her citizens from those criminals. No one is safe in that country. Rest in peace my brother.
Matt Taylor
Reading, UK
I am gutted. I was only listening to Lucky Dube's album yesterday and today my friend texted me to say he was shot. Such a vicious waste of a great man and a great musician.
Leahmon Titi
Philadephia, USA
We love to hear the music of the former great reggae artist Lucky Dube. I don't know what to say right now because it's hurt me so bad. May you rest in peace, love always, your fan Titi until then. May the almighty God be with you and those who sent you to your grave be in trouble until their death. Leahmon
Willie Itimu
Blantyre, Malawi
We Africans as a continent will miss an artist specialy in reggae music. But why people of South Africa decided to take Dube's life so fast like this? It will take time for Africans to get another reggae musician like Dube. May the doer of this death be granted by hard punishments from Jah himself. May Lucky Dube's soul rest in peace.
Davies Chinkusu
Zambia
The great child of Africa has gone. It will take a while to replace him...that voice wailed for the weak in society. Those killers should know that he fought for their freedom but now they have just enslaved themselves for the rest of their lives. It's sad that Lucky has gone now after surviving the harsh period of Apartheid. I just want to send my sincere apologies to the wife and children. His spirit will continue to console the whole world. We shall pick it up from him and send the message all over the world. Lessons were enough....siluma and the little boy and girl....let's keep the legend going ... big boys don't cry.
Clapperton Mavhunga
USA
Madilu System will be remembered by Africa's sons like myself, for bringing me back home to Africa with all my heart when my body is so far from the continent. Through his sweet melodies and lazy but unbelievable dancing, Madilu has shown that contrary to the (un)popular perception of Africa as a land of dread, sorrow and helplessness, it is, after all, the cradle of the artistic innovation. The spirit of a pan-Africanist music that says more with melody what few words can say, lives on.
Juliet Namayanja
Kampala, Uganda
Uganda's Jose Chameleone should be featured on this site. He has put Uganda on the musical map of the world after his 2006 MOBO Award nomination, 2007 MTV Europe Music award nomination, sweeping all awards throughout the region, definitely he should win the MTV award come November 1 in Munich. FOR GOD AND MY COUNTRY, goooooooooooooooo, Jose Chameleone, only the sky will limit you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bukola Awosanya
Manchester
You guys are doing a great job. However I will like to bring it to your attention that there are upcoming African hip-hop artists in Manchester too. People like Cee-Do (Nigerian-born hip-hop artist based in Manchester), Lakeside, Felli and more are taking African hip-hop to the next level in Manchester. Visit cee-do.com to hear some clips.
Jennifer Lawala
London
We, Africa, lost a big man, Madilu System. We will never get somebody in this world like him. I myself am a singer from Africa but he is our man. We are praying to God to keep him well. He is still alive through his music. We love him and we will keep on loving him forever. Bye, my brother.
Musa Mazombwe
Birmingham, UK
To Madilu System: Rest in peace, Le Grand Ninja, will miss your voice.
William
Kartoum, Sudan
My condolence to our best musician, late Madilu System,who passed away the month before. May his soul rest in peace.
Enock
Portland, Oregon, USA
Madilu System, thanks for the wonderful melodies and wonderful dances you gave us. You shall forever be in our hearts. Mungu a ku salamiya. Rest in peace mukubwa.
Natalie
Hello! Just wondered if you could help me. I am desperately trying to find and African Choir that sings music similar to the Ladysmith Black Mambazo band. Do you have any contacts that your recommend. I have tried going through several organisers with no luck. I would really appreciate any help you could give. Many thanks.
Mizani
Mombasa, Kenya
First I thank you for the good work you're doing. I would like to know if you interview underground hip-hopers and if so then I think you should visit this part of the world where you'll meet real MCs who are yet to be recognized.
Danny Kapambwe
Gaborone, Botswana
Good articles on African reggae artists and music I must say. I am a Zambian Electrical Engineer currently working in Botwsana. I compose and play reggae songs here part-time and have just set up a home studio where we doing such a recording under a production company we have formed called Bingi Vibes. We are promoting youths into roots reagge and concious dancehall vibes. Our intention is to go into this full-time in the next two or three years. Wonder how we could link up with bredren out there in particular one dreadlocked man called Zebbie Straughan (originally from Jamaica) who came to Lusaka, Zambia when I was a student at the University of Zambia in 1993 and 1994 and apparently had/has an operation called 4TH Generation there in England. Is it possible to link him up for me? Big up to Bush Doctor and African Simba, you have motivated us, keep the fire burning.
Jah Live and Bless the ites
Ras Anada Ris
Sia
Canada
I like K-man. He is the best. I love all of his songs. Good luck to you and may God bless you. I wish you will come to Canada. Love you.
Mahad
California
There is nothing new on your Somali music page for over 2 years!! I mean at least you can pick up some Somali off the street and pay them $50 to give an update on new Somali music!! Heck, they would probably line up to do it for free!! The Somali music scene is alive and well in the UK and around the world! It is a shame that the BBC is continuing to miss out on the opportunity to promote such such a valuable piece of the African music scene.
Nola Marshall
London
I am trying to find a UK-based Ngoni (xalam) and a Riti Player. Can you help?
Kofi Ayivor
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
I just call to say, you are beautiful, and it's true.Thanks for your review. God bless you.Yours faithfully. Kofi Ayivor
PS: I love your website.
Rachel Quaye-Sowah
Glasgow
"Celebrating African music in the UK"? It's all happening in London. What about Glasgow? :-(
Ralph Newsome
USA
All of these artists are really good but i think Tic Tac should have been the best African act. His music is well known in the Americas. He currently got his video directed by Gill Green, one of the best video directors in America and also the director for Akon, Busta Rhymes, Tony Yayo, Lil Flip, Lil John, DJ Khaleed, Brandy, 50 Cent and many more. Since this is the first time ever in Africa, he convincely deserves the best African act. I hope to see him nominated for the upcoming MTV Europe awards and to see him win the Best African Act.
Yes
USA
I love u guys!
Kate
Madrid, Spain
Hello all! I'm a Nigerian living in Madrid and would like to comment on the result of the MTV Europe Award that saw my favourite pair as one of the nominees for best African act: P-Square.
I must say I really expected them to win in that category as they are not only good in what they do but spectacular as artists. I would like to send out a shout of congrats to them as my winners and hope that come next time, they go home with what they truely deserve as winners they are.I'll also like to use this medium to congratulate MTV for airing and promoting African artists. Thanks to all.
Magdalene
UK-based but Nigerian
I am really impressed, you are really doing a great job promoting Africa. I am so pleased. Keep it coming. Thumbs up to you. I like the website.
DJ. Erycom
Kampala, Uganda
Uganda's Jose Chameleone is now Uganda's leading export. He has put Uganda at a higher level through Ugandan music.
D Ndlovu
DC, USA
I am with the groundbreaking rap group - ZImbabwe Legit. As one publication put it:
Hailing from Africa, Dumi Right and Akim first appeared on the scene as Zimbabwe Legit when they inked a deal with upcoming label Hollywood Basic back in hip-hop’s golden age. they just recently released a critically acclaimed ‘lost tapes style’ album titled Brothers from the Mother.
The album was released internationally and received props in publications like Hip-Hop connection (UK), Blast Magazine (Japan), Bounce (Japan), Beat magazine (Australia), Beautiful Decay, XLR8R, Elemental, Wax Poetics, DC Pulse, Hype (South Africa), Hiphopsite.com, platform8470 and more.
I would like to see about having Zimbabwe Legit featured on your site. They are currently working on a brand new album including a song being dubbed as the greatest african hip-hop posse cut ever featuring some of the best emcees south of sahara.
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Roberto
Miami, Florida
I like the new website.