Senegalese artist Amadeus discusses strict upbringing and education

Senegalese artist Amadeus, born Saliou Samb, has shared insights into his upbringing and the influence of his father's strict educational standards. In an interview with Le Soleil, Samb explained that his father was highly demanding regarding academic performance, requiring him to recite lessons and maintain high grades.

To pursue his growing passion for rap, Samb had to balance his musical interests with these academic requirements; for instance, attending concerts was often contingent upon achieving good grades. This discipline continued through his higher education at Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis, where he earned a degree in communication.

Reflecting on his childhood, Samb noted that while his upbringing was rigorous, it was also filled with affection, spirituality, and strong values. He credits this environment, which included his father listening to khassidas, for the emphasis on love found in his musical works.