A true marvel to witness

Baaba Maal, Senegalese singer and guitarist, released Being in late March. Written during the height of the Coronavirus pandemic and worldwide lockdowns, Being marks his first full-length album release since 2016’s The Traveller.  

Maal is from Podor in the Northern Senegal region of Fouta, along the northern river valley region. From a semi-nomadic culture, he began travelling and studying music at an early age, further explaining on his website that “the songs travel from village to village, from country to country.” A powerful sentiment for equally powerful music.

Not only is Maal a gifted musician but also a committed humanitarian. In acknowledgement of his efforts with the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, he was named a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador in 2023. It is through this role that Maal is able to “give power to people who need that power to do things for themselves.” Maal combines his love for music with humanitarianism on Being by sharing messages from his community and addressing climate change and climate injustice.  

Maal curated the Festival les blues du Fleuve, which last occurred in Podor in December 2022 which featured special guests. Through his music, he creates a bridge between cultural realities and truly shows the power of people when they work together.  

Being is a seven-track album which includes songs featuring numerous guest artists. Rougi is featured on “Boboyillo,” The Very Best is included on “Freak Out” and Paco Lenol is featured on the penultimate track “Mbeda Wella.” The album mixes Maal’s traditional Senegalese sound with enamoring drumbeats and harmonious choirs all the while adding an electronic, and often, poetic edge.  

Maal’s vocals have garnered recognition as his signature voice can be heard throughout Marvel’s Black Panther soundtrack. His ability to pay homage to his home while connecting cultures around the world can be envisioned throughout the album.