Radio Negra

Radio Negra: Manu Chao tribute from Gent, with a nod to Bob Marley and UB40

Radio Negra is a Manu Chao tribute. The musicians come from Gent and found each other in reggae, ska, rumba and mestizo. What binds them is a shared love for Manu Chao, and for everything around him: La Pegatina, Buena Vista Social Club, Bob Marley, UB40 and The Specials.

What you'll hear

The foundation is the work of Manu Chao, the man behind Mano Negra and one of the best-known voices of mestizo. Radio Negra performs those songs with a twist of their own and also gives a nod to Bob Marley and UB40. The result is multicultural mestizo: reggae and ska rhythms, rumba and a solid helping of brass. Alongside Manu Chao, their set also pays tribute to La Pegatina and The Specials, and even to the Buena Vista Social Club. That way the evening shifts from Latin America via Jamaica to British ska, without the tempo dropping.

The band themselves describe their show as a summery cocktail, sultry and danceable. That is also the heart of what you as an organiser can expect: music that is highly danceable, with a multicultural streak.

Who's on stage

Radio Negra plays with a full live band. Besides vocals, guitars, bass and drums, you'll hear percussion, cornet, trombone and keys or accordion. Several musicians sing along, which gives the songs a group feel that suits the singalong character of Manu Chao well.

Where they've played

Radio Negra plays mainly in Flanders, but in recent years has also travelled to Wallonia and France. On their own site they mention performances in Luik, Seneffe and in Monthermé in France, among others. In 2022 they closed the mainstage of the Kokopelli festival. On 12 December 2026 they play in Houthalen-Helchteren.

For which events

With a repertoire built on danceability and a summery atmosphere, and a track record on festival stages, Radio Negra is a logical choice for a festival, a summer event or an open-air party where the audience comes to dance.

Practical

Radio Negra can be booked through R-Tists in Flanders, Brussels, Wallonia and the Netherlands. We'll send you the technical rider with your enquiry, so you know in advance what you need to provide as an organiser.

Availability

Looking for a danceable closing act for your festival or summer party? Let us know your date, location and the type of event. We'll check availability and get back to you with a proposal.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of music does Radio Negra play? A Manu Chao tribute with a nod to Bob Marley and UB40: multicultural mestizo with reggae, ska and rumba, highly danceable.

Where is the band from? The musicians come from Gent.

Does Radio Negra also play outside Flanders? Yes. The band has already played in Wallonia and France and can be booked through R-Tists in Flanders, Brussels, Wallonia and the Netherlands.