Ablaye Mbaye

• country:
  Senegal
• region:
  West Africa
• style(s):
  Afro Jazz
• artist submitted by:
  Mama-Afrika

Ablaye Mbaye, born in Dakar in 1981, still lives close to his birthplace today. Being born blind, unlike many blind people in Senegal he doesn't lead a life as a beggar in the streets of Dakar. Already as 6-vear-old he used to compose his own songs. With the support of his promoter Youssou N'Dour, who recognised Ablaye's talent very early, he published a couple of his songs already at the age of 13. Since then he has been performing regularly together with the great musician Youssou N'Dour in the famous Thiossane-Club in Dakar.

Ablaye Mbaye is member of the Griot, an ethnic group, that is famous for the handing down of cultural values and the arts of Senegal. His songs are dealing with compelling African issues such as religion, immigration, poverty and the values of the African culture. His first confrontation with French music led to the formation of the band "Yakar", a collaboration with "jazzfunkers" from Paris. Ablaye and his band regularly give concerts in Paris and other European cities.