If the King of Mbalax is Youssou N’dour and the King of Pop is Michael Jackson, then the Queen of Acoustics must be Ramatoulaye “Shula” Ndiaye (pictured), who is a young and gifted Senegalese artist.
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From the age of 15, Shula has shown real talent in music with her acoustic sound that she mixes with traditional instruments, creating a rather original tempo. A singer and guitarist, Shula is a native of Rufisque (near the capital of Dakar) and one of the most-prominent artists of her generation.
Shula has made an impression in the traditional and urban sound called “Acoustic Fusion” or “Afro Acoustic Folk Song.” Inspired by her environment, her music is the fruit of the cultural heritage of Senegal.
Watch Shula’s “Jammi Reew” here:
As a fan of acoustic music, a listener of Rhythm and Blues, as well as opera singers, Shula also cites Khar Mbaye Madiaga, a famous Senegalese traditional opera singer, as one of her muses.
In Rufisque, her and her group, the Ramatou Band, provide joy and happiness to music lovers eager for acoustic rhythms. Produced by the hero of Senegalese music Ouza Diallo, Shula is a the former chorus-singer of the Great Studs from 2000 to 2002, and her rich music is known both nationally and internationally due to the podium she has shared with big names, such as Sade Adu, Paul McCartney, Femi Kuti, Carlos Santana, and Wyclef Jean.
Nationally, she has worked with a number of famous Senegalese singers, such as Coumba Gawlo Seck and the groups Ceedo, and Pee-froiss.
Children’s Ambassador
In 2013, her and her group toured Europe while advocating for children’s rights and the education of girls. With her commitment to fighting against malaria and advocacy work on the behalf of children, Shula stands to be an artist who aligns her musical career with social justice. And the themes of her songs always support her daily fights: for example, “Tuut Tank” means the children and “Jangum Jiguéne” is about the schooling of the girls.
Today, Shula is enjoying her solo career, with performances from her album both nationally and internationally. “Jammi Reew” (peace in the country) in 2012 and “Bawounane” (prayer for plenty of rain) are some of the standouts from this outstanding artist.
Watch Shula’s “Bawounane” here:
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