Africa Unite

The Profile

Africa Unite is an Italian reggae/dub band from the Turin area, active since 1981. Led by Bunna and Madaski, they pioneered reggae in Italian and are known for genre-blending albums and powerful live shows.

Core members Bunna (vocals) and Madaski (keyboards/dub) anchor a rotating lineup. Controlli (2006) leaned into electronics and dub, dropped brass, featured reggaeton and a Talking Heads cover with Raiz. Rootz (2010) restored a roots-reggae warmth with returning horns (Mr. T-Bone, Paolo Parpaglione) and guests including Alborosie, Mama Marjas, Jacopo (Mellow Mood), Franziska, and Patrick Benifei. Babilonia e poesia (1993) marked the shift to Italian, with Max Casacci (later Subsonica) and Luca Morino (Mau Mau). Reviews highlight themes of media control, diversity, and environmental criticism, plus a strong live reputation (In diretta dal sole). Influences nod to Anglo-Saxon reggae such as Steel Pulse.

DeBaser’s reviews paint Africa Unite as Italy’s reggae flag bearers, led by Bunna and Madaski. Controlli pushed into dub/electronic textures, while Rootz reclaimed a warm roots-reggae sound with horns and notable guests. Mentre fuori piove blends reggae with hip hop, R&B and swing; In diretta dal sole confirms their reputation as a powerful live act. Babilonia e poesia marks the pivotal move to Italian lyrics with genre-blending flair.