An
exceptional star for World Athletics Gala: Youssou N’dour - the favourite of
youngsters around the world
IAAF Release
22 November 2001 - Monaco – The World Athletics Gala 2001, which will take place on Sunday, 25 November in the Salle des Etoiles of the Monte Carlo Summer Sporting and during which the Honorary President of the International Athletic Foundation, His Serene Highness Prince Albert of Monaco, and the President of the Foundation and of the IAAF, Lamine Diack, will announce the names of the prestigious Athletes of the Year awards, will have a very special guest star.
Youssou n’Dour, one of the most popular contemporary singers, is an idol to youngsters around the world. Born in the Senegalese capital, Dakar, 42 years ago, Youssou n’Dour made his first appearance on stage at the age of 12. Since then, his extraordinary talent has taken him a long way, from the original Star Band of Dakar, to the most famous Senegalese band, which in 1981 was named Super Etoile (Super Star).
Youssou n’Dour’s career has gone from strength to strength, with his songs receiving acclaim from critics and fans alike. His particular style of pop-influenced African music has inspired such musicians as Peter Gabriel (Genesis) and Paul Simon (Simon and Garfunkel).
Most recently, Youssou n’Dour composed and sang the theme song of the 1998 Football World Cup; now he has turned his attention to athletics and his performance in the Sporting d’Ete on Sunday will be as much a homage to the athletes present as another important artistic happening for Monte Carlo.
The World Athletics Gala 2001 is proposed by the Internal Athletic Foundation in cooperation with the EBU, the IAAF, the Compagnie Monegasque de Banque and MONDO.