On this day, February 18, 1983, Manfred Mann’s Earth Band released their 11th studio album, Somewhere in Afrika. The album stood out as one of the band’s most socially conscious works, incorporating themes of apartheid and South African culture into their signature progressive rock sound.
Somewhere in Afrika featured a mix of original compositions and covers, including Redemption Song (originally by Bob Marley) and Demolition Man (written by Sting). The album’s most notable track, Runner, became a hit and was later widely associated with the 1984 Summer Olympics. The song Brothers and Sisters of Africa directly addressed the struggles of apartheid, making the album one of the few mainstream rock releases at the time to highlight the issue.
The album received critical acclaim for its bold message and innovative blend of rock and African influences. It remains a unique and politically charged entry in Manfred Mann’s discography.
Fun fact: The album’s concept and artwork reflected Manfred Mann’s South African roots and his opposition to apartheid, making it one of his most personal releases.
Trivia question: What Bob Dylan song did Manfred Mann’s Earth Band famously turn into a hit single in the 1970s?
Somewhere in Afrika featured a mix of original compositions and covers, including Redemption Song (originally by Bob Marley) and Demolition Man (written by Sting). The album’s most notable track, Runner, became a hit and was later widely associated with the 1984 Summer Olympics. The song Brothers and Sisters of Africa directly addressed the struggles of apartheid, making the album one of the few mainstream rock releases at the time to highlight the issue.
The album received critical acclaim for its bold message and innovative blend of rock and African influences. It remains a unique and politically charged entry in Manfred Mann’s discography.
Fun fact: The album’s concept and artwork reflected Manfred Mann’s South African roots and his opposition to apartheid, making it one of his most personal releases.
Trivia question: What Bob Dylan song did Manfred Mann’s Earth Band famously turn into a hit single in the 1970s?
