"REUNION" now stands strong as one of The Abyssinians greatest albums. Artists Only! Records realized the importance of this album and in 1998 re-titled and re-released this album as "REUNION". These sessions resulted as the originally released album, "$19.95 + TAX" in 1995 with a very limited number of CD"s printed. In 1989, Donald, Bernard and Linford joined together again to record over the next three years. In Jamaica, Bernard Collins performed on stage with longtime associate George Henry. The group separated in 1980, during the separation group co-founder Donald Manning performed internationally under the name The Abyssinians with his brother Carlton Manning (of Carlton & The Shoes) and singer David Morrison. Early albums were a collection of singles recorded throughout the 1970"s on their own label - Clinch, of which included "Forward On To Zion" (1976) and "ARISE" (1978). What followed were a string of hits of which included "Declaration of Rights," "Yi Mas Gan." and "Let My Days Be Long". It was also covered by many other International artists" including Third World. "Satta Massagana" became one of reggae"s most popular songs becoming an anthem that was heard on the radios, in the dancehalls and in the churches of Jamaica.
It was in 1969 with their release "Satta Massagana" recorded on Coxson Dodd"s Studio One label - a Rastafarian hymn based on the Ethiopian Amharic language, that launched them into the ranks of Reggae music greats. The roots harmony vocals trio the Abyssinians was formed in 1968 by founding members Donald Manning, Bernard Collins and Linford Manning.