Youssou N’dour is an artist who truly transcends his music. An esteemed figure in his native Senegal, he caught the world’s attention through his 1994 hit “Seven Seconds” alongside Neneh Cherry. This led to collaborations with the likes of Tracy Chapman, Paul Simon, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Peter Gabriel and more, making him a true, far-reaching reference point for African music in the international consciousness.
Outside the studio his life has been characterised by anti-racism and anti-poverty activism. He was made a Goodwill Ambassador to the United Nations in 2000 and has done work with Amnesty International and UNICEF. For the Senegalese, he has also gained a political reputation as the Minister of Culture and Tourism (2012-13).
Themes of cross-cultural unity and a desire to affect change are also echoed in his music. He is still and active performer around the world and here we see him at the Sing Jazz Festival in Singapore with his lauded Super Etoile Dakar group. On a repertoire that acts as a cross-section of his career, his vocal tone drives the concert forward, demonstrating what a remarkable stage presence he commands.
