At the end of February, Sinkane announced they would release a new album, Dépaysé, on May 31 through City Slang. Now, the band led by Ahmed Gallab has revealed a new single to preview the record titled “Ya Sudan.” The group has also announced the dates for their headlining Fall Tour 2019.
Like other works in the collection, “Ya Sudan” is simultaneously thoughtful and celebratory. In the song, Gallab reflecting on his multi-cultural roots, which represent his British birthplace, Ohio childhood, and his Sudanese heritage. As he explained in a statement:
I am so inspired by how the recent uprising in Sudan has unified Sudanese people all over the world. I feel like we are truly understanding our identity. It feels inclusive and welcoming. Sudan is one of the most diverse places on Earth. From the Nuba Mountains to Port Sudan. Dongola to Darfur. Kassala to Khartoum. We are people made up of different languages, cultures, and religions. Our differences create our beautiful and rich identity. As for me, growing up outside of Sudan has given depth to my identity. This is the message of “Ya Sudan.” Being Sudanese is about being yourself unapologetically. Not letting anybody define who you are.
This song is for the Kandakas who have been at the forefront of toppling Omar El-Bashir. And the strong men and children who stand beside them. And all of us outside of Sudan standing together showing the world our resilience. There is no better time than now to be Sudanese.
Sinkane has released “Ya Sudan” with an animated music video that was inspired by vintage Sudanese vinyl artwork and features Gallab’s family photos from childhood. Watch for yourself below:
Sinkane has also announced a headlining fall tour, which spans from mid-September to mid-October. The outing will find the live band featuring Gallab, Elenna Canlas, Jonny Lam, Ish Montgomery and Chris St. Hilaire performing across the United States, including a three-night run in Texas and two-night runs in Colorado, North Carolina and Missouri.
