In the annals of Senegambian music, one name resonates with power and purpose: Musa Afia Ngum born in 1953 at Fatoto, a village in the country’s upper river region of Gambia, Ngum became one of the most iconic figures in West African music, influencing generations of musicians in both Gambia and Senegal. He married Sonha Jobe in the 1970s, and together, they had 9 children, of which were 2 girls and 7 boys, one of them named Yusupha Ngum, who took after his father’s musical career and became successful.

Ngum’s life, which sadly ended on October 11, 2015, is celebrated for his profound contributions to culture, music, and unity.

Ngums death came just hours after an iconic performance on October 10, 2015, Just For You” in Senegal. The show, marking his 40th anniversary in music, was an unforgettable event where he performed alongside his son Yusufa Ngum, who took after him in music, and fellow musician Omar Pene. Sadly, after the event, Ngum fell ill and was rushed to Le Dantec Hospital. In the early hours of the following morning, he passed away. His body was laid to rest in the Mouride religious city of Touba in the neighboring Republic of Senegal.

As a singer and songwriter, Ngum became widely popular in both Gambia and Senegal. His music, which celebrated the ancient kingdoms and cultures of the Senegambian region, was imbued with a sense of unity and pride in shared history. He was one of the pioneers of Mbalax, a popular music style in the region. His influence extended to Youssou N’Dour and other Mbalax Pioneers.

Ngum’s journey into music began with classical Ndut teachings, where he sang the Kassack songs. These early influences helped him develop his vocal prowess, which ranged from a piercing falsetto to a smooth tenor and deep growl. He became renowned for his ability to move effortlessly between these styles, captivating audiences with his technical skill and emotional depth.

A firm Pan-Africanist, Ngum’s music and life were dedicated to fostering stronger ties between Gambia and Senegal. For decades, he championed the idea of uniting the two countries under one president, seeing them as historically and culturally inseparable. His vision was grounded in the belief that Senegambia’s unification could serve as a model for a more united Africa.
This belief in unity was even reflected in his unique fashion choices. For many years, Ngum wore mismatched shoes, which he described as one representing Senegal and the other Gambia. This became his trademark—a symbol of his hope for the day when the two nations would be united.

His songs carried messages of hope, love, and unity, providing solace to the downtrodden and celebrating the spirit of his people.

One of his most famous songs, Bajul Bajul Yehh, is a tribute to the city he cherished. It’s a song that, like many of his others, echoed his desire for a united Senegambia. His music remains timeless, and in the hearts of many in the Senegambian region, Ngum is remembered as a hero who used his art to bridge divides and build a future of hope.

On the 15th of October, Gambia plans to host a concert to pay tribute to the icon at the Alliance Française offices in Banjul.

Musa Afia Ngum’s legacy lives on—not just through his music but through his vision for unity, which continues to inspire generations across the Senegambian landscape. His dream of a united Africa, symbolized by his two-colored shoes, remains as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.