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Mbalax
Senegal's sabar-driven popular music
Mbalax is the popular music of Senegal, built on the sabar drumming of the Wolof and sung largely in Wolof. It joined that percussion tradition to Cuban, jazz and soul influences to become the country's defining modern sound.
Also spelled Mbalakh
Origin & history
Senegalese bands of the 1970s had been playing Cuban repertoire; mbalax came from turning back toward sabar drumming and Wolof language and song.
It became Senegal's dominant popular music and, through its best-known performers, one of the most widely heard West African sounds internationally.
Notable artists
Youssou N'Dour
Senegalese singer whose work carried mbalax to international audiences.
Where it lives
Questions & Answers
What is mbalax?+
Mbalax is the popular music of Senegal, built on Wolof sabar drumming and sung mostly in Wolof, with Cuban and jazz influences in its arrangements.
What is a sabar?+
The sabar is a Senegalese drum, played with one hand and one stick, whose rhythms are at the centre of mbalax.
Where is mbalax from?+
Senegal.
