Amadou Diagne is a singer and multi-instrumentalist who has the traditions of West Africa at his fingertips. Originally from Dakar, Senegal, Amadou comes from a long family line of West African Griot percussionists and praise singers. As a young man, Amadou’s obvious musical talent won him a place as a professional full-time member of L’Orchestra National du Senegal. He performed with some of the top West African stars at festivals, cultural events, concerts and on television. He became an in-demand session musician on the vibrant Dakar music scene. 

Since moving to England, Amadou has been busy forging his own musical identity as a musician, singer and songwriter. He is inspired by meeting, playing and collaborating with musicians with diverse backgrounds and musical styles. 

In 2012, Amadou was signed by World Music Network, and his debut solo album Introducing Amadou Diagne was released in February 2012, it went straight to no. 16 in the European World Music charts. His follow-up Yakar was released on the Waulk Records label in May 2013. Yakar received a 4-star review in Songlines magazine and top pick playlist review in fRoots. A track from the album was included on fRoots CD download as well as being included in their top 50 album list for 2013. Amadou Diagne’s third album Ligéey was released in 2015 on LongTale Recordings to great reviews. Amadou’s music has been played on radio stations from Australia to Israel, Denmark and the USA as well as on BBC Radio 3 Late Junction.

“Honey-smoked vocals … Plaintive, acoustic and brimming with an unhurried assurance.” Jamie Renton, fROOTS Magazine no.361, July 2013

“Amadou Diagne introduced the evening, setting the mood of the show. Thanks to his mellow, charming voice, the rhythmic, pulsating character of his sound, a lively stage presence and a skilled accompanist he seduced the hall, juggling between guitar and percussion, narrating anecdotes and offering a sincere expression of the West African tradition.” Review: Amira Kheir + Amadou Diagne @ LIFEM 2014 Kings Place (London, 31st October 2014) Rhythm Passport