Carlou D

Carlou D

Carlou D is a Senegalese rapper and solo artist from Dakar, born in 1979. He is also known by his birth name, Ibrahima Loucard. He grows up in one of Dakar’s suburbs and learns about music under the guidance of his father, who introduces him to a wide range of styles.

Early career

He leaves school at sixteen and begins performing on local stages in his neighbourhood. After a single release in 2002 gains attention, he is invited by Didier Awadi to join Positive Black Soul, Senegal’s first and one of its best-known hip-hop groups.

Positive Black Soul

With Positive Black Soul, Carlou D tours internationally and develops a direct lyrical approach that addresses social problems and political issues. He leaves the group in 2004 when its members go their separate ways.

Solo work and style

As a solo performer, Carlou D presents music shaped by the Baay Fall spiritual tradition and by the influence of his spiritual guide, Cheikh Ibra Fall. His work combines hip-hop with jazz, soul, rap and acoustic roots. He appears in traditional Muslim robes and with the image of his spiritual guide around his neck, and is also described as an exceptional guitarist with a clear voice and strong rhythmic feel.

Background and themes

His music places emphasis on purity, simplicity and respect for others, alongside the directness associated with hip-hop. He performs with a band and is associated with Dakar’s music scene.