OSIBISA Vinyl Records and CDs

Osibisa were among the first Afro-Pop bands to cross over to European and American audiences in the early 1970s. The band's members (from West Africa and the Caribbean) came together in London and quickly made an impression on the university circuit. Mixing African, Caribbean, Soul and rock elements into a fiery musical inferno, they continually packed London dancefloors. Based around a strong rhythm section that includes a standard drum kit, African drums/percussion, Cuban timbales and funky bass and organ, they added jazzy brass and flute with afro-beat vocals. The fact that they sang mostly in English undoubtedly helped them cross over to non-African audiences. While Fela Kuti was singing about the serious issues, Osibisa -- which means "happiness" in the Akan language -- simply wanted to party.