Manfred Sepse Lubowitz, a multi-talented individual, has made a name for himself as a skilled keyboardist, arranger, singer, and songwriter, with a professional career that has spanned multiple decades and genres.
Born with a passion for music, Lubowitz's talents soon earned him recognition as a founding member and namesake of not one, not two, but three influential bands: Manfred Mann, Manfred Mann Chapter Three, and Manfred Mann's Earth Band.
October 21, 1940, marked the birth of a remarkable individual, Lubowitz, who would go on to make a lasting impact in the world of music. Born into a rich cultural heritage, Lubowitz was raised in a Lithuanian-Jewish family in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa. His parents, David Lubowitz and Alma Cohen, instilled in him a deep appreciation for the arts, which would later shape his future endeavors.
As a young man, Lubowitz pursued his passion for music at the University of the Witwatersrand, where he honed his skills as a pianist. Following his studies, he embarked on a successful career as a jazz pianist, performing at various clubs throughout Johannesburg.
In a bold act of defiance against the oppressive apartheid regime, Lubowitz made the courageous decision to relocate to the United Kingdom in 1961, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life. It was during this period that he began to hone his writing skills, penning articles for the esteemed Jazz News publication under the pseudonym Manfred Manne.
The band, renowned for their prolific output of chart-topping singles, boasted an impressive discography, featuring an array of iconic tracks that continue to resonate with audiences to this day, including the irrepressible "Do Wah Diddy Diddy", the timeless "Sha La La", the captivating "Pretty Flamingo", and the enduring "Mighty Quinn".
After a successful run, the band's members went their separate ways in 1969, with Mann embarking on a new musical venture, Manfred Mann Chapter Three, an innovative jazz-rock outfit that pushed the boundaries of the genre. Although the band's tenure was relatively brief, lasting only two albums, Mann's creative energy and artistic vision remained unwavering, ultimately leading him to form Manfred Mann's Earth Band in 1971.
This new entity, which still thrives to this day, has continued to evolve and adapt, recording and performing a wide range of music that showcases Mann's remarkable talent and dedication to his craft.
Manfred Mann, a renowned musician, has ventured beyond his primary project by releasing solo endeavors under the monikers "Manfred Mann's Plain Music" and "Manfred Mann '06". This multifaceted artist is particularly recognized for his signature keyboard contributions, which frequently incorporate elements of improvisation and are heavily influenced by the genre of jazz.
Throughout his illustrious career, Manfred Mann has employed a diverse array of keyboard instruments to create his unique sound. These instruments have included, but are not limited to, the piano, organ, mellotron, and Minimoog synthesizer, each adding its distinct characteristics to his music.
During the early 21st century, it became a common occurrence for this individual to incorporate a Roland keytar, adorned with striking zebra stripes, into his live performances. Specifically, he would frequently utilize this unique instrument on stage for a span of two to three songs, showcasing his eclectic style and flair for the dramatic.
