WOMADelaide today announced its initial line-up of 25 international artists, led by legendary Senegalese singer, percussionist and social revolutionist, Youssou N’Dour; for the 2015 festival to be held in Adelaide’s Botanic Park, 6–9 March.
Returning for his third appearance at WOMADelaide, Youssou N’Dour boasts a career spaning over three decades, including a recent period as Senegal’s Minister for Culture and Tourism, and an attempt at the countries presidency. N’Dour is today one of the most influential cultural figureheads within political and musical circles in Africa.
A pioneer of the prevalent Senegalese dance music known as mbalax, a fusion of popular western music and dance blended with the Senegal’s traditional griot percussion and praise-singing. Youssou N’Dour is hailed as the man who brought Senegalese music to the world.
WOMADelaide Director, Ian Scobie, said that it is a real honour to again host Youssou N’Dour, an artist who played the very first WOMADelaide in 1992.
“Youssou’s long standing relationship with WOMADelaide and its fans is something we hold very dear. He is a true leader on and off the stage and it’s a privilege to again exclusively host him at WOMADelaide in 2015.”
Other artists heralding roots from Africa on the inaugural 2015 WOMADelaide announcement include:
- Legendary South African jazz pianist and composer; Abdullah Ibrahim Quartet
- The nomadic prince of the desert blues, Niger’s Bombino
- The explosive and powerful punk and reggae sound of Europe’s multinational, Che Sudaka
- Drawing inspiration form the indestructible beat of Kinshasa ‘s social rhythms and melodies; Jupiter & Okwess International
- Crafting inspiring gospel songs from Malawi’s roadside is, Malawi Mouse Boys
See the full list of artists here.
The next instalment of WOMADelaide artists will be announced on October 28.
WOMADelaide will be held from 6 – 9 March 2015 in Adelaide’s Botanic Park.
For tickets and event information visit: www.womadelaide.com.au
