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Clip of Celia Cruz + Fania All Stars performing in Kinshasa, Zaïre (now Democratic Republic of Congo) in 1974. Will make this an ongoing thread of Zaïre 74 performances... #SUNUnotes #SUNUjournal
In 1974, ahead of the Muhammad Ali-George Foreman fight in Kinshasa (The Rumble In the Jungle), a 3-day music festival was held between September 22nd and 24th, 1974. It became known as Zaïre 74 and was organized under the then president (and dictator) Mobutu. (Cont’d)
Not only was Zaïre 74 a means to promote the fight that was to take place the following month, but its aim was to also foster Pan-African relations between continental Africans and the African diaspora. (Cont’d)
The performances were captured in the documentary Soul Power (2008) directed by Jeff Levy-Hinte. #SUNUnotes #SUNUjournal
Full videos of the performances shared here are on our Instagram/IG TV: @sunujournal
Important to note that Zaïre 74 was conceived + organized by Stuart Levine and the late, great Hugh Masekela. The performances led to the the making of the Zaïre 74 album. #SUNUnotes #SUNUjournal
Rest In Peace to singer Bill Withers (1938-2020). Bill Withers, a soul music legend known for classics like “Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Lean on Me” has sadly passed on.” Here is a clip from his Zaire ‘74 performance. #SUNUnotes #SUNUjournal
The song Withers is singing here is called Hope She’ll be Happier
