As part of their Limited Dance Edition series, the outstanding German-label Analog Africa has recently released an incredible four-track collection of essential gems from legendary Ivorian artist better known as the “king of Ziglibithy,” Ernesto Djédjé.

After returning to the West African country of Côte d’Ivoire in 1974, following a stint in Paris recording music with the late great Manu Dibango, Djédjé formed a core group featuring drummer Diabo Steck, keyboardist and guitarist Bamba Yang, guitarist Léon Sina, and saxophonist Assalé Best. The band went on to create a unique Ivorian and international rooted style known as Ziglibithy, which combined the rhythms and chants of the Bété people and fuse them with Makossa, funk, and disco. Following the release of his first two albums in 1977, titled Vol. 1 Gnoantre Dans Zibote and Le Roi Ziglibithien were extremely well received in West Africa, and he became an icon overnight.  

Ernesto Djédjé unfortunately died mysteriously on June 9th, 1983 at the age of 35, however in just a short time, released 5 highly acclaimed albums, cementing his legacy as one of the most innovative Ivory Coast  artists ever.

Since Djédjé’s passing, Ziglibithy has mostly disappeared from the Ivory Coast airwaves, however thanks to the always incredible work by Analog Africa and it’s founder Samy Ben Redjeb, four of Djédjé have been compiled and released on this well-crafted release, titled Roi Du Ziglibithy. The compilation features some of Djédjé’s greatest songs, including the all-time classic “Ziglibithiens”.

As we begin to enter the colder months, this must-own release has arrived just in time to turn up the dancefloor heat. Highly recommended!

On a personal note: This record came out during my recent visit to Hawaii, and it provided the perfect tropical soundtrack — consistently on repeat!

Ernesto Dj​é​djé – ‘Roi Du Ziglibithy’
(Analog Africa)

1. Nini
2. Ziglibithiens
3. Bliwana
4. Golozo

BUY RECORD

• African
• Compilation
• Tropical Grooves