Backa was born a griot (storyteller) in Pikine Guinaw Rail, Senegal. Like his family members before him, he started drumming and singing at a very early age and was inspired by his mom who is known for singing and telling stories when ever there were local events.
After being a fan of Gokh-Bi System (GBS), he later became a group member when the band discovered his many musical talents. Since joining GBS, Backa has recorded and performed around the world and shared the stage with such musical luminaries as Michael Franti, Damian Marley, The Last Poets and many more. His work with GBS is on rotation on major television networks including VH1 Soul and BET J.
While remaining a member of GBS, Backa is launching his solo career and is in the process of recording his first solo project which is due out in the second quarter of 2008. While in the U.S., Backa also teaches African drum classes as part of the Ancient Meets Urban Academy of Justice (AMUAJ).
In 1996, African Akhlou B had the honor of performing for the former president of Senegal, Abdou Diouf and the president of France, Jacque Chirac. A major endeavor of theirs has been to educate the youth about the perils of drug use, and they have toured consistently throughout Senegal to bring this message to the next generation of Senegalese people.
Many music experts in Senegal believe that African Akhlou Bi will be the next group to carry African Dancehall music around the world.
