In the rule-bound world of northern Senegal, Baaba Maal wasn't meant to sing—ever. Born into a Pulaar-speaking family of fishermen, his path was pre-determined. But after years of study with local griot and family friend Mansour Seck, the pull of music proved too strong: Maal embarked on a musical career that's brought him lasting international fame. Whether singing traditional acoustic music or a fusion of African influences and western pop, the common thread throughout remains Maal's high-pitched siren call of a voice, which cuts through any background with sharp clarity.