performer, in West African culture, tradition dictates that the ancient griot caste must produce the singers and storytellers, and Maal was born in the city of Podor in 1953 into the fisherman's caste. Despite his parents' insistence that he become a lawyer, he grew up surrounded by music, absorbing both the traditional sounds of the region as well as American R&B and soul, later discovering jazz and blues. As a teen Maal moved to Dakar, joining the 70-piece orchestra Lasly Fouta and teaming with his guitarist friend Mansour Seck to form the group Lasli Fouta; during the early 1980s, the duo also spent several years in Paris, where they recorded the 1984 album Djam Leelii. Upon returning to Senegal, Maal formed the group Daande Lenol -- literally, The Voice of the people, and began honing a highly distinctive sound fusing traditional African music with elements of pop and reggae; in 1988 he issued the LP Wango, the first in a series of highly successful albums which also included 1991's Baayo, 1992's Lam Toro and 1994's Firin' in Fouta. In 1998, Maal released Nomad Soul; the first recording on Chris Blackwell's new Palm Pictures label, it featured cameos by Brian Eno, Howie B. and others. A succession of records followed on Palm during the subsequent three years.

Baaba Maal's music is filled with the mysteries of ancient Africa. Like the griots he admires, Maal sings of history and heroes, bringing the lessons of the past into our lives today, as heard on the "Black Hawk Down" soundtrack. Maal brings his acoustic group, focusing on the folkloric and intimate music of Africa. Delicate in appearance, Baaba Maal sings with hurricane force. His music embraces the gentle filigree of West African folk, and the toughness of urban music. Adapted from Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide.

Fore More on Baaba Maal see the websites listed below.

http://www.newworldbuzz.com/maalreview.html