Legendary Senegalese musician Youssou N’Dour has wowed audiences for decades, earning his reputation as one of the greatest African musicians of all time. The musical and cultural icon is set to perform in Zambia for the first time on 25th March. As we anticipate one of the biggest performances on a Zambian stage, let’s look at the life and career of one of Africa’s most celebrated musicians.
Both of N’Dour’s parents were singers, and he grew up listening to various music, including traditional Senegalese music, jazz and Latin American music. By age 13, he was performing at neighbourhood events and outside clubs (because he was too young to enter the clubs legally). At 16, he joined the regionally popular Star Band de Dakar, and his career has only gone from strength to strength since then.
N’Dour is one of the creators of the mbalax musical genre that originated in Senegal in the 1970s. At its core, mbalax is a fusion of traditional Senegalese music and modern Western influences, such as jazz, funk and rock. The music typically features a lead singer, accompanied by a large ensemble of musicians playing a range of instruments, including drums, keyboards, bass and guitar. N’Dour popularised mbalax in Senegal and worldwide and has been a longtime ambassador for African music. He has collaborated with international music stars, including Sting, Bruce Springsteen, Tracy Chapman and Peter Gabriel, bringing global attention to Senegal’s rich musical heritage.
His contributions to music and culture have earned him numerous honours and awards, including a Grammy for Best Contemporary World Music Album (2005) and an MTV Europe Music Award for his mega-hit ‘7 Seconds’ (a duet with Neneh Cherry). He has also been named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World by Time Magazine. Other honours he has received include the Praemium Imperiale, a highly coveted international arts prize.
N’Dour is an activist who spreads messages of unity and social justice on and off the stage. As a proponent of pan-Africanism, he launched the Africa United campaign in 2010, which aimed to promote unity and pride across the African continent through music. The campaign culminated in a concert in Johannesburg, South Africa, featuring some of the biggest names in African music. As N’Dour takes the stage for the first time in Zambia, he will share the stage with local talent from different generations and genres, exemplifying his commitment to a united Africa. Zambian performers that night will include local legends Moses Sakala and Angela Nyirenda. Other talented local artists performing that night are Mumba Yachi, El Mukuka and Kreative Nativez.
He has used his platform to raise awareness on issues such as poverty, education for all and HIV/AIDS. He has also served as Senegal’s culture and tourism minister and as a UN Goodwill Ambassador. Furthermore, N’Dour is also a successful media entrepreneur in his home country.
Legendary musician and cultural ambassador Youssou N’Dour has profoundly impacted African music after many years in the industry. He performs with his long-time band, the multi-instrumental Super Etoile de Dakar, and they will no doubt thrill Lusaka audiences. N’Dour is blessed with an unmistakable, powerful, distinct voice that brings unmatched energy to the stage. Undoubtedly, his upcoming show will go down as one of the best in Zambia’s musical history.
Images by: Youri Lenquette, A Katz/Shutterstock
