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In
1969 Donald Manning and Bernard Collins drafted the
blueprint of a songthat would launch them into the canon of
reggae greats. With the addition of Linford Manning the trio
was complete, and founding member Donald Manning m baptised
them The Abyssinians. The song they had been nurturing was
recorded and went on to become reggae’s most popular song of
all time, Satta Massagana. It quickly gained momentum as an
anthem traveling from the radio airwaves to the churches of
Jamaica. A string of hits followed including Yimmasgan and
Declaration of Rights. They went on to produce and record
three albums for various labels: Satta Massagana, Forward
and Arise. In 1996, their latest album, 19.95+Tax was
released on Satta Massagana Records.
The Abyssinians have set the standard for vocal harmonies
and roots consciousness in reggae music, their strong,
prayerful voices touch peoples hearts, heads and souls.
There is no rigid hierarchy or lead vocalist spot, each
member has his talents and they frequently share songwriting
tasks. The rootical music, often performed with some of the
reggae world's best backup musicians, have caused crowds to
sing and dance while praying along with their spiritual
message.
They have toured Europe and Japan to huge crowds,
appreciative of the chance to see these statesmen of reggae.
The opening of their first-ever world tour took place at
Lambeth
Town Hall in Brixton, England on February 17th, 1989. Their
appearances in the United States and in Jamaica at Sunsplash
and at the Rockers Anniversary Concert have been excitedly
attended by fans.
During the summer and fall of 1997, the Abyssinians will be
on a world tour. Their rootical harmonies will once again
fill the clubs and venues with joyous fans, eager to witness
the roots of reggae.
Source: http://www.uprise.com/abys/menu.htm
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