Remmy Ongala called his sound "ubongo beat," since "ubongo" means "brain" in Swahili and this was music with conscience and groove. Songs for the Poor Man was the band's first album to feature lyrics in English as well as Swahili, and the first recorded in the West. Here is a band firing on all cylinders: a bassist, saxophonist, three percussionists, and three guitarists delivering an East African take on soukous, while giving their leader's distinctive rasp the space to soar.
Release date:
August 5, 2022
Label:
Install our app to receive notifications when new upcoming releases are added.

Recommended equipment and accessories
-
Turntables - Top Picks
A selection of reliable record players you can buy today, for every budget
-
Vinyl Care - Top Picks
A selection of accesories to keep your turntable equipment & vinyl records in the best shape
-
Pro-Ject Phono Box DC Pre-Amp
Compact, high-performance phono preamplifier for both MM and MC cartridges, delivering a clean, detailed signal with minimal noise.
-
Edifier R1280DB Powered Speakers
Combining classic design with modern Bluetooth connectivity, built-in amplification and versatile inputs, these speakers deliver rich, balanced sound.
-
HumminGuru: Ultrasonic Vinyl Record Cleaner
Advanced ultrasonic technology with customizable cleaning cycles and a large tank capacity to thoroughly remove dust, dirt, and contaminants
Featured Upcoming Vinyl
-
Powerwolf Wildlive Live at Olympiahalle [2xLP]
Napalm Records
March 6, 2026 -
Major Stars More Colors of Sound
Drag City
October 24, 2025 -
Joyce Manor I Used to Go to This Bar
Epitaph
January 30, 2026 -
Charles Wesley Godwin Live From The Steel City [3xLP]
Big Loud Records
December 12, 2025 -
Begonia Fantasy Life (Red)
Birthday Cake Media
November 14, 2025 -
Spencer Mackenzie Empty Chairs
Gypsy Soul Records
February 20, 2026 -
Nathan Sykes Ultraviolet
Nathan Sykes
October 24, 2025 -
Leprous An Evening of Atonement [3xLP]
Inside Out Music
October 24, 2025 -
Callum Beattie INDI (Coke Bottle)
Cooking Vinyl
January 23, 2026 -
Dust Sky Is Falling
Kanine Records
December 5, 2025 -
Guided by Voices Thick Rich And Delicious
Gbv Inc
October 31, 2025 -
Helado Negro The Last Sound On Earth
Big Dada
November 7, 2025 -
Pink Floyd Wish You Were Here (50th Anniversary) [8xLP]
Legacy Recordings
December 12, 2025 -
MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP DON'T SELL YOUR SOUL (Red)
Earmusic
October 24, 2025