As part of the new generation of artists coming out of Senegal today Mohamed brings a fresh energy and high level of technical expertise together with a great respect for the culture and traditions of his ancestors. Mohamed’s grandfather was the great griot Abdou-Karim Gueye, a master drummer in Senegal who taught many future masters. Abdou-Karim was a master of ceremonies who played at large celebrations and traditional ceremonies. Mohamed’s father, Medoune Yacine ‘Dame’ Gueye, is a master drummer living in Washington, USA. Growing up in his grandfather’s home, Mohamed became proficient in several indigenous drum styles and rhythms including the Djembe, Sawrouba, Sabar and Tama drums. Here Mohamed also learnt about the care and maintenance of drums and the history of the griots in Senegal. Together with his grandfather and father, many of Mohamed’s brothers, uncles and cousins were and still are professional drummers, forming a family heritage rich in the history and culture of West African percussion.
From a young age Mohamed decided to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, and was a dedicated student. He trained at the Centre Culturel Blaise Senghor in Dakar where he performed with groups including Ambassador and Daradji. He continued to perform with his family at important events, such as Lambe (Senegalese wrestling) and ceremonies and tanebers across Senegal.
Since moving to London in 2010, Mohamed has been highly sought after for his expertise and energetic performances. He has worked with many artists including Baaba Maal, Carlou D, Pape Diouf, Salam Jallo, Sonkhoy Blues (Africa Express), Seye, and Royal Batuke. As a performer and teacher Mohamed has appeared at festivals across the UK including Aberdeen Festival 2010, Womad 2011 and 2012, the Isle of Wight Festival, Drum Camp 2011 and 2012, African Drum Village, JUMPforJOY! and venues in London such as the Olympic Park, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Sadlers Wells. Mohamed has also recently been interviewed for the BBC World Service Forum sharing his knowledge on the Senegalese talking drum – the programme ‘Talking Drums of West Africa’ can be found on the BBC World Service website https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3cswptb
Mohamed currently works and performs with numerous London based dancers and musicians including Diene Sagna (Yaye Dib Sabar), Alesandra Seutin (Vocab Dance), Irineu Nogueira, Landing Mane (Jamo Jamo Arts), Amadou Diagne and Abdoulaye Samb. Mohamed is an artist with the West African drum and dance company Yaye Dib Sabar and teaches in several primary schools in London as well as adult and professional classes and workshops.
