YORO NDIAYE

Born in Mbacké, near Touba, Yoro Ndiaye was not destined for a musical career. The eldest of a large family, his father wanted him to become a senior civil servant, but Yoro developed a passion for music at an early age. Making his first rudimentary guitar in his father’s carpentry workshop, he began to play on the sly at local ceremonies. After winning his first singing competition in 1994, he left school to devote himself to music. Settling in Dakar, he survived by working odd jobs while playing in bars and taking part in radio shows. In 2004, he released his first album “Bëgg Dem”, followed by several other hits such as “Nittu Nitt” and “Lamisoo”. He took part in numerous international festivals, gaining notoriety. Despite the challenges, Yoro Ndiaye has continued to produce music, with landmark projects such as “Sunu Folk” in 2018 and a new album “YAAY KANN” in 2024. His perseverance and talent make him an essential artist on the Senegalese music scene.