Senegalese-British collective Awale Jant Band returns after a five-year break with “Sonko Bakhna”, a rallying anthem for political transformation. Anchored in the mbalax tradition and coloured by reggae phrasing, the single was released on 1 August and honours Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, whose rise has galvanised a new generation of Senegalese activists and artists.

Formed in London and led by Senegalese vocalist Birame Seck and French guitarist Thibaut Remy, the group blends diasporic rhythm cultures with a sharp lyrical focus. On “Sonko Bakhna”, Seck’s Wolof and English lyrics praise Sonko’s leadership with refrains like “Sonko Worna (Sonko is trustworthy)” and “Ousmane Sonko fight for the people”, while drawing direct parallels with figures such as Nelson Mandela. Seck calls the track “a heartfelt tribute… a symbol of resilience and hope for Senegal and all of Africa.”

The arrangement is driven by Amadou Ndir’s Fulani-style bassline and the propulsive sabar-inspired groove of Ben Brown’s drums. Ibou Tall, a respected figure in Senegalese jazz, brings rhythmic clarity on keys, while the horn section — arranged by George Jefford and performed alongside John Martin’s flute — accentuates the song’s call-and-response momentum.

Sonko Bakhna” asserts Awale Jant Band’s ongoing commitment to music as civic expression, drawing from jazz, afrobeat, soul, and mbalax to amplify political and social voices.

The track is the first in a new cycle of releases, with further material expected in late 2025. Stream and listen to the single HERE