Senegal: Youssou N’Dour releases new album Éclairer le Monde

Originally set for release on 21 February, the album was postponed following the passing of his long-time bandmate, guitarist Jimi Mbaye on 12 February.

After an illustrious 45-year career that has seen him dominate West African music, win a Grammy, and earn countless accolades, N’Dour continues to push the boundaries of world music. His latest work blends modern production with his unmistakable mbalax sound—an energetic fusion of traditional Wolof rhythms and Latin American influences.

Recorded in a small village in Catalonia, Éclairer le Monde (Light the World) was created in an intimate setting, championing universal themes of family, friendship, and spiritual unity. The album reflects N’Dour’s dedication to sharing Senegal’s rich cultural heritage with the world.

Co-produced by Michael League, co-founder of the jazz band Snarky Puppy, and renowned jazz musician Weedie Braimah, the album is a meticulously crafted collection where every instrument has been carefully chosen. Featuring the kora, flute, sokou, ngoni, and balafons, Éclairer le Monde (Light the World) seamlessly blends traditional African instrumentation with contemporary production. Braimah’s percussion, rooted in deep West African rhythms, adds a rich and dynamic layer to the sound.

League contributes bass, guitars, ukulele, and keyboards, while a stellar international line-up enhances the album’s diversity. Drummer Munir Zakee from Atlanta, pianist Frank LoCrasto from New York, and kora player Momi Maiga from Madrid all lend their talents. Meanwhile, N’Dour’s longtime collaborators, Mbaye Dieye Faye and Thio Mbaye on percussion, Assane Thiam on the tama, and guitarist Tapha Gaye, help anchor the project in its Senegalese roots.

Éclairer le Monde (Light the World) also features choir sessions recorded in Dakar, directed by N’Dour and Nigerian musician Spotless. Rising Senegalese star Rema Diop appears on On l’a fait! (We Did It!), a tribute to football, with N’Dour’s 12-year-old son Nelson, an avid footballer, contributing vocals to the choruses.

The album pays homage to significant figures and social issues. In Ahmadou Bamba, N’Dour honours the revered Senegalese spiritual leader Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba. Meanwhile, Sa ma Habibi (My Love) addresses the ongoing issue of forced marriages, particularly in parts of Africa. Another standout track, Sam Fall, features intricate guitar work by League and Gaye in tribute to the Baye Fall sect of the Mouride Brotherhood, founded by Cheikh Ibrahima Fall.

With Éclairer le Monde (Light the World), Youssou N’Dour reaffirms his status as a pioneer of world music, continuing to inspire and educate through his timeless artistry. 

The album is available for streaming and download here.