Youssour N’Dour has rejected calls from political activists in the Diaspora to drop his Gambian concerts. He sang in front of a sold-out crowd last weekend.
Prior to his arrival, an activist group in the USA, DUGA wrote an open letter to the Senegalese superstar to urge him to cancel his plans to perform at the Independence Stadium in Bakau.
They wrote: “TheDemocratic Union of Gambian Activists (DUGA), learned with sadness and confusion, of your decision to play a series of concerts in The Gambia on the invitation of the Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation. You may or may not be aware that proceeds from those concerts will benefit the Jammeh Foundation….”
A happy Youssour arrived in the country holding fast to his plans. He felt the goal of his appearance was to promote Senegambian culture, and not to involve in domestic politics.
It was a massive three-day performance that also featured local artists like Humanity Starz.
“I’m sure that the organizers made lot of money. The crowd was big,” said Yaya Fatty who attended both the Banquet Dinner and Gala Night.
It was the former Senegalese minister’s first appearance in the country since his return to the stage. It also coincided with the release of his latest album, Fatelikou.
His Gambian fans were absolutely happy to see him again. According to our reporter on the ground, Youssour did not disappoint. It was an amazing concert, and he was so appreciative of the crowd.
Speaking to What’s On-Gambia, his backing vocalist Aida Samb said: “We’re very happy that people came out to show us love. It was big and everyone was happy and satisfied.”