Introduction to Youssou NDOUR

WMI and Kings Theatre welcome Senegal’s legendary Youssou NDOUR back to NYC, to celebrate the April 4th release of his new album, Eclairer le monde (Light the World). Hailed by Peter Gabriel as “simply one of the best singers alive”, NDOUR is the GRAMMY Award-winning musician and cultural icon from the Senegalese capital of Dakar. Known for his extraordinary voice and vocal range – he was named in NPR’s 50 Great Voices list – his influence spans continents and decades, solidifying his place as a global changemaker and ambassador for African culture.

Early Life and Musical Journey

Born into a griot family on his maternal side, his musical journey began at a young age, singing alongside his mother at religious ceremonies. In his late teens, he formed his first group, Star Band de Dakar (members of which later formed Étoile de Dakar), renowned for blending traditional Senegalese and Wolof music with other genres, pioneering a style that would eventually become known as mbalax.

Rise to Global Fame

In 1986, NDOUR collaborated with Peter Gabriel on the iconic track “In Your Eyes” from Gabriel’s award-winning album So, captivating global audiences with his electrifying performance. His subsequent duet with Neneh Cherry, “7 Seconds”, dominated the international charts, selling over 2 million copies worldwide and garnering Europe’s Song of the Year at the 1995 World Music Awards in Monaco. In 1994, NDOUR released The Guide (Wommat), propelling him further to global stardom, and his release of Egypt in 2004 won the Grammy Award for Best World Album.

Advocacy and Social Change

Beyond his music career, Youssou NDOUR has been a tireless advocate for social change. He has been actively involved in issues such as access to internet and healthcare, and human rights, working closely with organizations like Amnesty International. His commitment to these causes led him to enter the political arena, serving as Senegal’s Minister of Tourism and Culture and as Minister of Tourism and Leisure.

Lasting Impact

Over four decades, Youssou NDOUR has not only shaped the sound of African music but has also used his platform to drive meaningful change around the world. His work continues to inspire new generations, and his voice remains a powerful symbol of Africa’s rich cultural heritage and bright future. Rolling Stone aptly describes him as “a singer with a voice so extraordinary that the history of Africa seems locked inside it.”

WMI’s CHANGEMAKERS Series

WMI’s CHANGEMAKERS series highlights artists who, aside from enriching lives through the arts, positively impact society and their communities via their philanthropic, advocacy, and/or educational contributions and activism.

Conclusion

Youssou NDOUR is a true legend in the music industry, with a career spanning decades and a legacy that continues to inspire and influence new generations. His commitment to social change and advocacy has made a lasting impact on the world, and his music remains a powerful symbol of African culture and heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Youssou NDOUR’s new album called?
A: Youssou NDOUR’s new album is called Eclairer le monde (Light the World).
Q: What is WMI’s CHANGEMAKERS series?
A: WMI’s CHANGEMAKERS series highlights artists who positively impact society and their communities via their philanthropic, advocacy, and/or educational contributions and activism.
Q: What is Youssou NDOUR’s legacy in the music industry?
A: Youssou NDOUR is a GRAMMY Award-winning musician and cultural icon, known for his extraordinary voice and vocal range, and his influence spans continents and decades, solidifying his place as a global changemaker and ambassador for African culture.