| Senegalese-born, Youssou N'Dour is one of Africa’s most celebrated musicians. A renowned singer, songwriter and composer, Youssou's mix of traditional Senegalese m'balax with eclectic influences ranging from Cuban samba to hip-hop, jazz, and soul has won him an international fan base of millions. Youssou has appeared with some of the world’s top musicians, including Peter Gabriel, Sting, Neneh Cherry and Wyclef Jean. In his home country, Youssou is a powerful cultural icon actively involved in social issues.
In 1985, Youssou organised a concert in Dakar's Amitié Stadium for the liberation of Nelson Mandela. He toured the Europe in the late eighties with the Amnesty International concerts. In 1998, Youssou wrote and performed the anthem for the World Cup playoffs; three billion fans worldwide saw his live performance of this song, La Cour des Grands. He was also among the superstars performing at the Jubilee 2000 concert, consecrated by the Pope for the relief of Third World debt.
Youssou is a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF, and gives concerts to benefit children who are victims of AIDS. He has also been chosen as an Ambassador for the International Labour Organisation. Youssou has been awarded numerous prizes for his music, including Best African Artist in 1996, and African Artist of the Century in 1999.
Youssou N’Dour was born in Dakar in 1959 and first took to the stage at the age of 12. By his mid-teens, he was regularly singing with the most successful group in Senegal at that time, the Star Band. In 1979, he put together his own ensemble, the Étoile de Dakar, which by 1981 had evolved into the Super Étoile.
N’Dour’s music reaches audiences that are unprecedented for an African performer. Along with this exposure comes a welcome responsibility: to speak out, often more effectively than is possible for a politician or professional campaigner, for mutual respect among peoples and for children’s rights to survival, protection and development.
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