finetune artist: Mano Negra

This French band was formed in 1986 by Manu Chao (b. Jos-Manuel Thomas Arthur Chao, 26 June 1961, Paris, France; guitar/vocals), his brother Antonio Chao (trumpet), and his cousin Santiago Casiriego (drums). Formed from the remnants of the Paris-based rockabilly outfit Les Hot Pants, the trio set about forming a new unit which would reflect both their love of UK punk and the vibrant multi-culturalism of their native France, and provide an outlet for their deeply held political and social beliefs. Named after an Andalusian anarchist organisation, Mano Negra enjoyed a French hit with their first single "Mala Vida". A recording contract with Virgin Records followed, much to the disgust of some of the band's more ideological followers. Naming their style "patchanka", the band's recordings demonstrated their multi-cultural eclecticism, embracing punk, ska, reggae and hip-hop, but their anarchist principles hindered any significant commercial progress outside mainland Europe. They also built a following in Latin America, touring frequently and clashing with governments for their espousal of local guerrilla organisations. In 1995 Manu Chao relocated the band to Spain and created the concurrent Radio Bemba Sound System, a move which hastened the demise of Mano Negra. He then embarked on a highly successful solo career.

Listen to Mano Negra at Finetune.

Mala Vida
Senor Ma Tanza
King Kong Five
La Vida La Vida Me Da Palo
King of Bongo