Xalam (Sound)

Xalam 2, also known as Xalam and Xalam II, a Senegalese musical group, founded in 1969 by a group of friends. The band was originally called African Khalam Orchestra. The band takes its name from the xalam, a lute-like instrument. Xalam performed a mix of contemporary jazz tunes as well as African mbalax originals, usually sung in Wolof, the dominant local language; although the leading artists are all Serer and Toucouleur. The band included sax, drums, African percussion, bass and electric guitar. Xalam started playing dance music, such as rock, salsa, bossa, and rhythm and blues. The group performed in Senegal and other countries in Africa. Numerous musicians have played in the group and through their collaboration, have become popular. In 1975, they went on an African tour with Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba. Later, the group decided it was time to find its own musical identity and left the stage for four...Read More