Daara J (pronounced [d̺aːɾɐ ɟi], which means "the school" in Wolof) are a Senegalese rap duo that consists of N'Dongo D and Faada Freddy.

Their music takes influence from hip hop, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and reggae and is performed in English, French, Spanish, and Wolof.

[5] The group's 1998 eponymous debut album was produced by the reggae musician Mad Professor and was successful locally,[7] selling 15,000 copies.

The album's title is based on the idea that hip hop music was born in Africa, spread around the world, then returned to the continent.

[4] Daara J note similarities between rap and tassou—a traditional African verbal performance technique used to discuss the social and political environment, daily life, and future aspirations.

"[10] However, Katharina Lobeck of BBC Music noted that one of the tracks, the R&B-influenced "Hip Hop Civilization", is "too generically soppy for even the most hardened R&B fans",[11] but went on to say that the album is "a successful sonic adventure which thrives on its defiance of the margins of established sales categories".

Daara J has also performed with other hip hop artists and groups including Public Enemy, Wyclef Jean, and Mos Def.

"[3] In the Senegalese election of 2000, Daara J were involved in editing speeches for political leaders and the promotion of that year's campaign against corruption.