Francis Mercier Powerfully Re-Envisions ReLight Orchestra, DJ Andrea, and Margareth Menezes’ "Elegibò (Uma Historia de Ifà)"
The Deep Root Records founder's take on the world anthem continues his mission of connecting cultures across dance floors.
Rachel Narozniak
Francis Mercier returns to Insomniac Records not long after his last release on the label, August’s unifying single (an extension of 2024's "Sauti"), “Sauti vs. Diplomatico,” with ElGrandeToto, Faul & Wad, and African Children’s Choir. This time, the visionary producer places a propulsive spin on ReLight Orchestra, DJ Andrea, and Margareth Menezes’ celebrated world anthem, “Elegibò (Uma Historia de Ifà)."
As the spiritual successor to “Sauti vs. Diplomatico,” “Elegibo” continues Mercier’s mission of uplifting global voices and connecting cultures across dance floors:
“This is my official follow-up to ‘Sauti,’ and I couldn’t be more excited to work with the legendary Brazilian voice of Margareth Menezes. I wanted to bring a new Sauti-inspired composition to the world that had a Brazilian flavor,” says Mercier. “Times are tough in that region these days, so hopefully this song will radiate positivity among those living there, and among Brazilians living around the world.”
Infused with his signature Afro House sensibilities and verve that will propel “Elegibo” further and wider, Mercier tastefully reframes the 2007 chart-topper (Billboard’s Music World chart). Listen below.
Mercier’s purposeful new toe-tapper arrives in the midst of his sprawling, 33-date Neverending Summer Tour. With stops in the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Germany, Portugal, India, France, and the Netherlands, the tour coincides with the Deep Root Records founder’s ongoing Solèy residency at Ibiza’s Club Chinois. His bustling calendar leaves plenty of space for the song’s live playout – stellar news for Mercier and attendees alike.
"Elegibo" is out now via Insomniac Records. Buy it on Beatport.
