Aki Special

Amazon.com
"If you forget your mother, you have lost your life," croons Nigeria highlife star Nico Mbarga in one of African music's biggest hits, the classic 10-minute midtempo dance rave "Sweet Mother." Mbarga was the most successful translator of West African horn-driven rumba to a guitar band. Mbarga's Rocafil Jazz group may lack bop syncopation, but its six members nonetheless swing together with sweet, machinelike precision. Released originally in the late seventies, before juju and fuji became Nigeria's predominant styles, the tracks collected on Aki Special collectively mark one of the most fertile periods of African music--with tribal rhythms and proverb-studded vocals combined with Western pop harmonies to create ecstatic dance music for both the body and, as suggested by "Free Education in Nigeria," the body politic. --Richard Gehr

Tracks:

Aki Special
Christiana
Sweet Mother
Wayo In-Law
Free Education in Nigeria
Onye Ori Obi
Nature

Amazon.com

"If you forget your mother, you have lost your life," croons Nigeria highlife star Nico Mbarga in one of African music's biggest hits, the classic 10-minute midtempo dance rave "Sweet Mother." Mbarga was the most successful translator of West African horn-driven rumba to a guitar band. Mbarga's Rocafil Jazz group may lack bop syncopation, but its six members nonetheless swing together with sweet, machinelike precision. Released originally in the late seventies, before juju and fuji became Nigeria's predominant styles, the tracks collected on Aki Special collectively mark one of the most fertile periods of African music--with tribal rhythms and proverb-studded vocals combined with Western pop harmonies to create ecstatic dance music for both the body and, as suggested by "Free Education in Nigeria," the body politic. --Richard Gehr

Customer Reviews:

Looking For The Man Who Gave Me This Music.......2006-07-17

I was a young American Living in Germany. A refugee from Africa whom I befriended brought this record over to my house. I recorded it without ever knowing who the artist was until now. I'd love to know what happened to you my friend. You came to my house and we played drums in my basement. I have always had the songs on this record in my head and I'm so glad to have found it now. The rhythmic guitars and catchy vocals have always been with me. I hope life treated you kind and this music reminds me of my friendship with you. Many Thanks.

Sweet n' Happy.......2005-05-06

I am an american born in Cameroon when my parents were in Peace Corps. Prince Nico was the record we always used to play while we were preparing the house for a big party. We would dance around and arrange everything. I feel my African roots when I hear this music deep down. Lighthearted yet full of poignant meanings, this music will uplift your feet and your mind. If you like African music this is a must!

favorite for life.......2005-02-21

I am a half Nigerian (Igbo on my father's side) and have listened to this song since i was a newborn! I am 14 years old, so as you can imagine, mother and I have spats. alot. However, when i listen to this song it makes me feel better, and im ready to face my mother.Because she truly is my "sweet mother"

This is just like "home" to me..........2005-02-08

Nothing like Naija music! I got this for the "Sweet Mother" song in rememberance of my mom who left this place last year in May. Nice dancin music... :) {I am nigerian/igbo by both parents}

A Taste of Nigeria.......2004-05-28

When I received this CD this past Christmas I was estatic. Being that I am a 1st generation American, I look for anyway to feel at home away from my true home (Nigeria). This CD gives me a taste and feel of my culture and ensures that I know where I come from. Sweet Mother, the hit single off of the CD, is a sound that I grew up on. The upbeat style of sound exhibited on this track, as well as the other tracks, forces you to get up and dance not knowing what has overcome you. Aki Special is a true representation of the old Nigeria that my parents talk so fondly of.