Berklee Valencia will name as Honorary Doctor Case a Youssou N’Dour, international reference for African music. The Senegalese composer, singer, actor and politician was a pioneer in popularizing African music through the mbalax genre.
Berklee Valencia will award the doctorate degree Honorary in music to Youssou N’Dour, a great reference in African music for his work to bring the traditional rhythms of Senegal to an international audience. The recognition will take place during the class of 2024 graduation ceremony on Monday July 8 at 6:00 p.m. in it Auditorium of the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía.
The illustrious African artist is a great reference for his work fusing traditional Senegalese mbalax with rhythms and influences from around the world. He from Cuban rumba to hip-hop, jazz, or soul, among others. His voice resonates with determination presenting the ancient traditions of the Senegalese griot. At the same time, he conveys political and social messages in Africa and around the world. His work, his political activism, and his philanthropic work have left their mark on several generations of artists.
Born in Dakar, Senegal, in 1959 N’Dour She began her career as a singer in religious ceremonies. At 16 she joined Star Band de Dakar, where he played a key role as a pioneer of the mbalax genre. In 1977 he founded Star of Dakara band that performed in Europe and North America, collaborating with artists such as Peter Gabriel and participating in the tour “Human Rights Now!”.
His solo career skyrocketed in 1994 with the release of his album “The Guide (Wommat)” with which he achieved international recognition. He continued his international career by releasing numerous highly successful albums including the award-winning Grammy Egypt. Throughout his career, N’Dour He has also relied on his music to lead social change. Above all, being part of various organizations, and even founding one’s own called Unit 2008.
N’Dour He has been awarded for his achievements on many occasions. In 2017 he received the Imperial prize from the hands of the Japan Art Association. They have also recognized it in the Danish Music Awards, he Montreal International Jazz Festivallos Edison awards, The Sea of Musiclos MOBO Awardsand the Polar Music Prize.