When hip hop first hit the scene in Africa, it went from merely being a fad, to a more social and political movement.
With the modernization of the country, and the rise in media, the youth of Senegal were able to embrace a new form of expression.
One of the main reasons why hip hop has become preeminent in Senegal is due to its mixture of sound and culture.
"The largest of the city include the Wolof (44% of the population), Fulani and Tukulor (24%), Serer (15%), Diola (5%) and, Mandinka (4%)."
Prior to the wide spread of hip hop in Senegal, traditional music was transcended through pre-ordained griots.
The term griot, also known as gewel, can be defined as, "… traditional praise-singer, musician, social go-between, counselors, or dancer and acrobat,"[3] These individuals were born into, "endogamous, professionally specialized group often referred to as a 'caste'.
"[3] Their position in Senegal society was that of much importance for griots were also known for their abilities as oral specialist who, "…had to guarantee not only the survival of their people as a culturally and historically defined group, but also the social status of the nobles they were attached to.
So, Elisabeth, a good wife has to be like you: [3] After World War II, there was a rise in the night club scene where more diverse forms of music began to be played by foreigners.
"Those who have decided to refrain from practicing their hereditary profession and have taken up some other occupation; those who continue to perform, without innovation, and those who have managed to find or create a new kind of occupation that still seems to fit the traditional griots' ethos adapting the art of their ancestors to modern requirements and possibilities.
"Praise songs, far from being superseded, have instead become incorporated into popular music..."[3] Today, "griots have found new meaning for old customs, and new functions for old skills,"[3] Although they originated from a caste which held no political power, modern griots still hold much power and status and are better off in life than modern families.
The subject matter of these songs usually consists of admiration for nobles, but can also include commentary on social issues.
However, according to Tang, "although these songs sometimes have moral or didactic messages regarding social behavior, they rarely speak out against specific individuals or institutions."
Their songs address important societal issues, spread awareness, and "demand and effect change."
"Wolof is the most widely spoken language of northern Senegal and it has rich and ancient musical culture performed by hereditary musicians (gewel).
"[1] With the strides Senegal is making as a modernized country, only time will tell before the first female solo album is released and praised for its political context, and social advocating for change.
It was started by Baay Bia who spent more than 10 years using his talent to make people aware about protecting the Senegalese environment.
Some Senegalese artists use their fame as ways to bring empowerment and social change to the continent of Africa.
"[6] Maal knows the ample amount of resources and technology here in America and feels that if we could just spot light these areas, then maybe governments would straighten up.