American Marconi Wireless News - Reggae icon Meta to headline Stereo Africa Festival in Dakar

Meta -- who sings in English, French, Wolof and Pulaar -- is renowned for his socially conscious music, unifying messages and captivating performances.

He will take the stage on May 9 for a special concert at the festival, which is now in its fifth year.

"Performing in Senegal is my greatest dream," the Senegalese-born singer-songwriter told AFP.

Having settled in the United States nearly 25 years ago, his band, Meta and the Cornerstones, is set to release a new album, "Echoes of Time", on May 29.

The international reggae group blends Afro, soul and hip-hop influences atop a roots reggae foundation, and is acclaimed for its overall contributions to modern reggae.

"Senegal shaped me spiritually and that spirituality is the backbone of my music, it is the message I carry with me wherever I go", he said.

"I have travelled the world but I miss the place I call home, so having this opportunity to return and perform in Senegal is a true joy", he said.

The founder of the Stereo Africa Festival, Sahad Sarr, a singer-songwriter and frontman of the Senegalese band SAHAD, will also perform among some 30 concerts that run from May 5 to 10.

He called Meta and the Cornerstones "the ambassador of African reggae, currently the most talented in the world".

Since its inception, the Stereo Africa Festival has attracted more than 10,000 attendees and hosted 250 local and international artists.

It also features a "Stereo Revelations" programme, a springboard for young Senegalese talent which has awarded past recipients a year of professional guidance and support to help establish their careers.

P.M.Smith--AMWN