Senegal: Youssou N’Dour to release new album on 21 February

After an illustrious 45-year career and dominating West-African music, a Grammy win, and countless accolades, Youssou N’Dour continues to push the boundaries of world music with this vibrant new work, blending modern production with his unmistakable mbalax sound that blends traditional Wolof rhythms with Latin American influences.

Recorded in a small village in Catalonia, Eclairer le Monde, the album was born in an intimate atmosphere and champions universal themes of family, friendship, and spiritual unity, reflecting N’Dour’s dedication to sharing the rich cultural heritage of Senegal with the world.

Co-produced by Michael League, co-founder of the jazz band Snarky Puppy, and renowned jazz musician Weedie Braimah, the record is a meticulously crafted album where every instrument has been thoughtfully selected. From the kora and flute to the sokou, ngoni, and balafons, each sound blends traditional African instrumentation with contemporary style, while Weedie Braimah’s percussion and deep connection to West African rhythms add a rich, dynamic layer to the album.

League contributes bass, guitars, ukulele, and keyboards, while a stellar international cast of musicianism including drummer Munirzakee from Atlanta, pianist Frank Locrasto from New York, and kora player Momi Maiga from Madrid. Also joining forces are N’Dour’s long-time collaborators Mbaye Dieye Faye and Thio Mbaye on percussion, Assane Thiam on the tama, and guitarist Tapha Gaye.

Eclairer le Monde (Light the World), which can be pre-saved here, also includes choir sessions recorded in Dakar, under the direction of Youssou and the Nigerian musician, Spotless. Rema Diop, a rising star from Senegal and a powerful female voice who features on the album, appears on the track ‘On l’a fait!’ (we did it!), a tribute to soccer, and it is Youssou’s youngest son and keen footballer, Nelson aged 12, who lends his voice to the choruses.

The album pays tribute to significant figures and causes. In ‘Ahmadou Bamba’, N’Dour honours the spiritual guide Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, while ‘Sa ma Habiibi’ (My Love) addresses the heartbreak of forced marriages still so prevalent today, especially in parts of Africa. Another standout track, ‘Sam Fall’, features a duet of skilful guitarwork by League and Gaye, honouring the Baye Fall sect of the Mouride Brotherhood in Senegal, founded by Cheikh Ibrahima Fall.

With Eclairer le Monde (Light the World), Youssou N’Dour reaffirms his place as a pioneer of world music, continuing to inspire and educate through his timeless musical aesthetic. Eclairer le Monde (Light the World) will be available for streaming from 21 February 2025.