(PR) Bay Area-based independent label MansMark Africa is proud to announce a very special upcoming release featuring the final studio work of legendary world music icon Babatunde Olatunji.In 2000, Baba began recording his final studio project, initially titled "Safari to Musical Africa, "on the MansMark Africa label. The exuberance and joyfulness he infused into these recordings shines through in every aspect of the finished tracks, leaving little room for doubt that this project was to be his crowning effort. Sadly, his untimely passing in 2003 made it clear that the then-unfinished album would in fact be Babatunde Olatunji's posthumous fond farewell. Upon completing his dear friend's final legacy, MansMark CEO Ayo Ajisebutu became inspired to rename the album "Spirit of Musical Africa", in reference and reverence to a cultural and musical icon whose spirit will forever resonate within the rhythmic beat of the African drums.
Millions of saddened hearts around the world can now rejoice that Baba's untimely death did not silence his unique sound and uplifting messages, as MansMark Africa prepares to release the long-anticipated album "Spirit of Musical Africa." "Spirit of Musical Africa" will surely magnify the work of the African drum maestro based on the album's global appeal, with tremendous mainstream crossover potential. The upcoming album is very unique from Baba's other recordings as it weaves various musical influences with traditional sounds. The soul moving album features the Senegales super star Youssou N'Dour, Miles Davis' performances, Sikiru Adepoju, Airto Morera., and Rasaki Aladokun.
"Spirit of Musical Africa" is set for release in summer 2008. Singles from the album will be released digitally on April 6 and 7 to mark Babatunde Olatunji's birthday on April 7. On April 6 MansMark will give away one of Baba's new songs for free on www.mansmark.com