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He is a national hero in Senegal and a global icon. The singer, actor, businessman, and entrepreneur has continually sought to reconcile Africa and the West through his art. Youssou N’dour’s life is full of anecdotes. Here are 10 facts you didn’t know about this amazing artist.
1. He once ran away to Gambia for a concert
source : pinterest
When he was younger he sold his shoes to pay for a trip from Senegal to Gambia where he was supposed to sing.
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2. His dad didn’t want him to sing
source : pinterest
“I didn’t want him to become a singer…I wanted him to become a writer, or go to university and take many degrees.” said his father in an interview.
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3. He tried to be the President of Senegal
source : enjoygram
In 2012, he entered the presidential race but was later disqualified from running.
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4. He inspired the entire world
Source: Pinterest
In 2007, Time Magazine named him amongst the most influential people of the world.
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5. He is a Doctor
source : Pinterest
He received an Honorary Doctorate from Yale in 2011.
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6. He became an entrepreneur at 24 years old
Source: enjoygram
At the age of 24, he had a whole organization of musicians and recording artists under his wing.
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7. He joined his first group at the age of 11
Source: enjoygram
He joined the Sine Dramatique Theatre group and was noticed by a musician known as Pacheco, who recommended him to the Diamono group.
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8. Youssou N’dour watches every Senegal football game
Source: Pinterest
Youssou N’dour considers himself as Senegal’s biggest football fan.
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9. Bob Marley was a great inspiration
Source: Pinterest
Youssou considers reggae music as part of his life and he even paid tribute to this musical genre in his album Dakar Kingston.
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10. He wanted to be a football player when he was young
Source: enjoygram
Up until now, Youssou is an avid football fan.
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