Dibango was an inspiration to many African artists and others in the music business and has been widely acknowledged by younger artists this week as generous with his time and support.

“The man that flew all the way from Paris to help me launch my career on the international stage in Dakar in 2004. This is sad news for me, my family and the entire African family,” wrote Seun Kuti, son of the Nigerian superstar musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti on Instagram.

“He was a true legend. A booming voice. An unmistakable sound,” wrote Somi, the New York-based jazz singer of Rwanda/Uganda extraction.

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