Viviane Ndour
Viviane Ndour: Senegalese Mbalax Superstar and Humanitarian
Viviane Ndour (born January 29, 1972) is a Senegalese singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman. Often referred to as the "Queen of Mbalax," she is one of the most popular and influential musicians in Senegal and Africa.
Early Life and Career: Born in Mbour, Senegal, Viviane Ndour grew up in a musical family. Her father was a musician, and her mother was a dancer. She began singing at an early age and joined her father's band, "Etoile de Dakar," as a backing vocalist. In 1990, she released her debut solo album, "Entre Nous," which was a commercial success.
Rise to Fame: In the 1990s, Viviane Ndour became a household name in Senegal with her energetic performances and catchy songs. Her albums, such as "Jigeen Ci Birou" (1995) and "Tere Nelaw" (1999), were critical and commercial successes. She toured extensively throughout Africa and Europe, gaining international recognition.
Global Success: In 2002, Viviane Ndour released her album "Ndewlen," which became a global hit. The album's title track, "Ndewlen," was a crossover success, reaching the charts in several countries outside Africa. She continued to release successful albums, including "24 Heures Chrono" (2005), "Visions" (2009), and "Tere Nelaw Vol. 2" (2012).
Musical Style and Impact: Viviane Ndour's music is rooted in Senegal's traditional mbalax genre, a vibrant and dynamic style of music characterized by rhythmic drumming, lively melodies, and energetic dancing. She has a powerful and soulful voice, and her songs often address social and political issues, as well as themes of love, unity, and empowerment.
Humanitarian Work: In addition to her music career, Viviane Ndour is also a dedicated humanitarian. She is a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF and has worked extensively on issues related to children's rights, education, and gender equality. She has also established the Viviane Ndour Foundation, which supports various social and educational initiatives in Senegal and beyond.
Awards and Recognition: Viviane Ndour has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. She has won several Kora Awards, a prestigious African music award ceremony, and was named the "Best African Female Artist" at the 2005 MTV Africa Music Awards. In 2018, she was honored with the "Chevalier de l'Ordre National du Lion" (Knight of the National Order of the Lion), one of Senegal's highest civilian honors.
Legacy: Viviane Ndour is a true icon in the world of African music. With her powerful voice, captivating performances, and humanitarian work, she has made a significant contribution to the global music scene. She continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, while using her platform to advocate for positive change.
