OMAR PÈNE

Omar Pene, has played a pivotal role in the evolution of Senegal's music scene. His remarkable journey, marked by his unique voice and innovative "afro feeling" style, which weaves Senegalese Mbalax rhythms with hues of blues, jazz, reggae, and salsa, positions him as a luminary on the African music stage.

One of the few Senegalese musicians to rival the iconic Youssou N'Dour, Omar Pene has, since his debut in 1974, been the heart and soul of the illustrious Super Diamono (translating to "Generation" in Wolof). Often regarded as a trailblazer and visionary, Omar Pene is a living legend – a cultural and musical icon whose renown stretches far beyond his native land.

Raised in Dakar's working-class neighborhoods, Omar Pene's musical journey began at an early age. Singing has been his constant companion, and his dedication to his craft shines through his artistry. Together with bandmates Cheikh Diagne, Bassirou Diagne, and Bazlo Diagne, he collaborated with members of Tropical Jazz de Dakar, including the skilled guitar and harmonica player, as well as vocalist, Ismael Lo. This fusion of talents gave birth to the acclaimed Super Diamono.

In 2022, he marks an incredible five decades in the music industry. A multifaceted journey and meteoric rise peaked in 1987, propelling him to grace the stages of the world's premier festivals (Paléo, Womad, du Bout du Monde...) without ever forsaking his core audience – the youth and marginalized of Senegal.

His journey only deepened in significance when, in 2021, he was named the most influential figure among students. This came as a further testament to his enduring impact, following accolades such as being named Senegal's top cultural personality in 2004 and clinching the title of best African artist in the United States by CFTV in 1998.

Omar Pene returned with "Climat," an acoustic opus meticulously crafted alongside the gifted Franco-Senegalese guitarist Herve Samb.

In this new masterpiece, Omar Pene's artistry is stirred by his diverse influences and resonances from distant lands. Within this album, he passionately articulates an unparalleled attachment to his roots and a profound sense of connection to the Earth and all of humanity. The core essence of both the artist and the man intertwine in a quest for unity and pleasure that transcends individual sensibilities. Through his music, he places the human experience at the forefront, weaving together the tumultuous interplay, the exuberance, and the cultural collisions reflective of the uninhibited spirit of mankind. The canvas he paints is one imbued with tenderness and luminosity, a canvas where he pours forth his love, reflecting the loftiness and sagacity of his musings. This symphony of emotions envelops us with its delicate, poignant notes, beckoning us to embark on a journey propelled by the very essence of musical emotion.

With a timbre both gentle and raw, a voice resplendent and soaring, and music that remains unadulterated and deeply rooted in the vibrant expressions of the street, Omar Pene’s artistic journey continues to be fueled by an unquenchable thirst for song. It's a song that celebrates the profound love life bestows upon him, a love he shares through every melody.