Episode 352

The Call of Senegal Part 2 with Nathan Fallou

Nathan Fallou traveled from Europe to Senegal to try to get an authentic experience, to understand the music and dance traditions such as Sabar, to speak the native language of Wolof and know the hearts of the people.

When he saw the performance of master percussionist Doudou Ndiaye Rose, he instantly knew what would be the next step in his education. Doudou was then in his early 80s, and still very much with a commanding and graceful presence, conducting many drummers – many of them his children or grandchildren.

After the show, Nathan went backstage to ask if there was any way he could help. Doudou was welcoming, and that began a partnership, something like the relationship between a guru and devotee, and later like that between a father and son.

Just as Nathan saw something miraculous in Doudou, Doudou saw something outstanding in Nathan, and that led them to collaborating in an event that would combine musical traditions and talent from Senegal and all over the world, the Deggi Daaj festival.