Yandé Codou Sène, born in 1932 in Somb in Sine-Saloum, is an emblematic figure of Senegalese music of Serer origin. Died on July 15, 2010 in Gandiaye, she marked her time as the official griotte of President Léopold Sédar Senghor.
Yandé Codou is deeply inscribed in the Serer musical tradition, influencing many Senegambian artists, including the famous Youssou N’dour. Although she had been singing since childhood, her first album, *Night Sky in Sine Saloum*, was not released until 1998, at the age of 65. This album contains memorable tracks such as:
Salmon Faye (a cappella), Gainde, Keur Maang Elbow, Bofia Tigue Waguene, Gnaikha Gniore Ndianesse, Natangue, Keur Mang Elbow.
But it was not until 1995 that she really became known with the album Gaïndé, produced in collaboration with Youssou N’dour, which received rave reviews.
In addition to his musical career, Yandé Codou Sène has also participated in several films, both documentaries and fiction. Among his notable contributions:
Mossane (1996) by Safi Faye (voice), Faat Kiné (2000) by Ousmane Sembène (music), Karmen Gei (2001) by Joseph Gaï Ramaka (interpretation of the role of a singer), Yandé Codou Sène, Serer diva ( 2008) by Laurence Gavron (documentary), Yandé Codou, la griotte de Senghor (2008) by Angèle Diabang Brener (documentary).
Yandé Codou Sène had a unique status, having the privilege of interrupting Senghor’s speeches to improvise songs in his honor. When she died at the age of 78, she left a rich cultural legacy. Today, his daughters continue to carry on the musical tradition, although they struggle to achieve the same level of recognition. Active in Serer culture, they mark their presence at various events, following in their mother’s footsteps.
Yandé Codou Sène remains an icon of Senegalese music, and his influence continues to resonate across generations.
