Pulaar, Despite his global outlook, he has always remained true to his roots by singing in Pulaar, the Fulani dialect of the Senegal River valley. Baaba's work is a contemporary take on the West African storytelling troubadour tradition of the griot. Like many singers before him, he uses music as a tool for social change. Baaba Maal means "father of songs" in Pulaar, and that is exactly what this legendary musician was to his people: a father figure who taught them how to tell stories with music. He began his career at age 13 when he played alongside his father on the family drum. Later becoming one of the most important voices in Senegalese music, he influenced countless musicians throughout Africa and the world. He died in January 2015 at the age of 69 after suffering from cancer. Baaba Maal's music is known for its simple poetic lyrics that touch upon social issues such as poverty, war, and famine. He used to say that music can be a weapon against injustice. His message continues to be heard by many through his influence on other musicians across Africa and around the world.