May 21, 2009: On this edition of Africa Mix, Emmanuel Nado welcomes Camerounian music icon Ben Decca. He is one of the historic fathers of “Makossa,” the popular rhythm and dance style of his country. His style has been called the Elegant Makossa.
During the late 1960s, modern makossa developed and became the most popular genre in Cameroon. Makossa is a type of dance music, supported by a wicked bass line. Outside of Africa, the genre was best made known by Manu Dibango, whose 1972 single, "Soul Makossa," was an international hit. Manu’s “Soul Makossa” draws more toward a funky jazz style.
Ben Decca is in the Bay Area at the invitation of (NCEDA) Nyasso Cultural, Economic & Development Association, a Bay Area Camerounian organization for their Annual Convention Gala.
Please join us at 9:00pm on Thursday, May 21, for this special live conversation with Ben Decca.
—Emmanuel Nado
