Cheikh Ibra Fam, the acclaimed Senegalese artist, has released “Xam Xam,” the first single from his upcoming album Adouna (Life), set for release in October 2025 via Cumbancha.
Rooted in personal history, the song draws inspiration from Fam’s childhood in Senegal, where he listened to family friend Coly Cisse play guitar during power outages. These evenings left a lasting impression, shaping Fam’s musical and philosophical outlook.
“Xam Xam,” which means “knowledge” in Wolof, reflects on the transmission of wisdom across generations. Rather than romanticizing the past, the track emphasizes the enduring value of education, mentorship, and introspection.
Musically, the single combines Caribbean zouk, Angolan kizomba, and West African instrumentation, including the kora, to create a rhythmic yet reflective atmosphere. Through both sound and lyrics, Fam positions knowledge as a transformative force. As he sings, “If you have it, you have everything; if you lack it, you have nothing.”
Author: World Music Central News Room
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