As Afrobeats and Amapiano dominate global charts, three legendary African musicians have returned with powerful new releases, reminding the world of their foundational role in shaping the global appreciation of African music—long before it was mainstream.
Youssou N’Dour: A Return to Roots
Senegalese icon Youssou N’Dour released a new album on April 4, 2025—coinciding with Senegal’s Independence Day. Originally scheduled for February, the release was delayed following the passing of his longtime guitarist, Jimi Mbaye.
N’Dour, who gained international acclaim in 1984, is celebrated for pioneering Mbalax—a unique fusion of traditional Wolof rhythms with jazz, soul, reggae, and Cuban influences. While often critiqued by purists for modernising the genre, his latest offering marks a return to the genre’s authentic sound.
Produced by Michael League of American jazz-rock band Snarky Puppy and co-produced by Ghanaian-American djembe master Weedie Braimah, the album showcases Africa’s rich musical heritage through instruments like the ngoni, kora, balafon and flute.
Highlights include the lively love song Bul Ma Laaj, the spiritually reflective Noflaay, and Sa Ma Habibi, a condemnation of forced marriage. His son, 12-year-old Nelson N’Dour, makes his debut on the football-themed anthem On L’a Fait, alongside rising Senegalese star Rema Diop. The album closes with Ahmadou Bamba, a tribute to the revered Senegalese religious leader.
Salif Keita: Stripped-Back Soul
Malian legend Salif Keita has released So Kono—his first acoustic album and his first release in seven years—on April 11, 2025. Inspired by a 2023 acoustic performance in a Kyoto temple during Japan’s Kyotophonie Festival, Keita recorded the nine-track album in his hotel room in Kyoto.
Known as the “Golden Voice of Africa,” Keita offers a minimalist approach, allowing his voice to shine over delicate instrumentation by ngoni player Badie Tounkara and percussionist Mamadou Kone. The album blends reimagined classics and new material, with standout tracks including Tassi, Cherie, Soundiata, and Kante Manfila—a tribute to the legendary guitarist and Keita’s former bandmate from Les Ambassadeurs.
Alpha Blondy: Reggae with a Purpose
Ivorian reggae icon Alpha Blondy also returned on April 11 with Rise, his 20th studio album. At 72, Blondy remains a powerful voice for African unity and progress, themes that drive the album’s lyrical direction.
Je Ne Suis Pas Fâché, a standout track featuring Congolese rumba legend Koffi Olomide, begins as a classic reggae tune before shifting into a vibrant soukous rhythm. Jamaican artist Capleton features on Cold Fire, bringing his signature energy to a celebration of Africa’s global ascent.
Blondy also contributes Ayoka, the theme song of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations hosted in Ivory Coast, which features local stars Didi B, Soum Bill and Roseline Layo—bridging the gap between generations.
Together, these releases not only celebrate the enduring artistry of African music legends but also serve as a powerful reminder of their continued relevance in shaping the continent’s sonic future.