The band Mano Negra was formed in 1987 and they were active until 1994. Their name is a reference to a Spanish anarchist organisation. They are one of the most special French bands in my opinion. They made songs in French, English, Spanish and even Arabic, and many of their songs switch languages. They were inspired by many different styles of music from different parts of the world (rock, Latin music, punk, reggae…). After they broke up, their lead singer Manu Chao made a successful career, especially in the late 90’s with his very famous album Clandestino (1998), featuring some of his former bandmates.
[More about them on Wikipedia]
Songs by Mano Negra :
- Pas Assez de Toi (it’s in French so it’s the only song I’m gonna translate)
- Mala Vida
- Soledad
- El Senor Matanza
- Out of Time Man
- King Kong Five
- Love and Hate
- Sidi H’bibi
Songs by Manu Chao :
- Me Gustas Tu
- Bongo Bong (a version of Mano Negra’s King of the Bongo)
- Clandestino
- Amadou et Mariam : Sénégal Fast Food (featuring him on vocals)
[More about Manu Chao on Wikipedia]
French Music into English 