A chat with Mary N’Diaye another sprouting singer in Sweden

Mary Ndiaye is among the few African musicians that are highly respected in Sweden. She is already a registered songwriter and has performed at different parts of Scandinavia.

Born in 1987 in the Swedish capital Stockholm, Mary’s mum is Gambian while her father is from neighbouring Senegal.

She started singing at a very early age. However, the young Senegambian girl writes for big music stars in the Scandinavian region. Mary is currently been nominated as the best Gambian female artist abroad.

In this interview with Onegambia Promotions, Mary talks about herself and her music.

Tell us something about yourself?

I was born in Sweden in 1987. I have been living here since then. I started going to music school since I was 10.

You always claim that you are Senegambian. Can you explain.

My maternal grand mum is Gambian and my father is from Senegal.

Why did you take a French spelling for your surname?

My dad’s side live in Senegal and that’s how I got the French spelling.

Have you ever been to The Gambia?

Yeah, almost five times. The last time I was there I saw Singateh performing. My cousin Jennifer Crooke (also a Gambian musician in Holland) invited me to that concert.

Are you going to school?

I am in the Song Writer’s Academy and it is a two-year education programme. Before I went to the academy I was signed as a songwriter by Air Chrysalis Scandinavia and my boss recommended that I go to the academy. At the academy each of the students has his/her own studio.

Are you considering producing an album?

Yes I am working on my debut album and I am also busy writing for other musicians.

How much do you get paid for a gig?

It depends, because I have done a lot of gigs for free. I believe that to reach my goals I got to do this first, as it will enable me to get popular. For all my fun gigs I have not got any money for it.

Do you have your own manager?

I got a publishing house not a manager. At the moment I try to handle myself. I arrange my own gigs and get my own people in the band. I want to show young people that we can do a lot for ourselves.

Who are your favourite African musicians?

I love Youssour Ndour, I got to tell you that. I also like Fally Ipupa and that is just new.

I could see that you like maintaining an Afro-hair style?

Well I like having an Afro hair. I love things that are African and Afro is a natural hair.

How do you feel being nominated as the Best Gambian female musician abroad?

I am really grateful to be nominated. I want to thank those who have supported me.