Youssou N’Dour – 7 Seconds ft. Neneh Cherry

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“7 Seconds” is a song by Youssou N’Dour featuring Neneh Cherry.

It was released in 1994 and became a huge international hit, reaching the top three in many countries including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, Russia, and Poland. The song speaks to universal themes of hope, unity, and perseverance in the face of adversity and prejudice.

The lyrics of “7 Seconds” convey a message of acceptance and embracing others, despite cultural and religious differences, as the key to creating a more inclusive and peaceful world.

The first verse, sung by Youssou N’Dour in Wolof (a language commonly spoken in Senegal), translates to “I return, I ask for a spot in your embrace, I stand here alone and without support, I’m begging you to accept me, even though we don’t share the same views and beliefs”.

Neneh Cherry’s verse emphasizes the need for roughness and rudeness to combat wickedness and the ongoing battle against discrimination and prejudice.

The song “7 Seconds” won the 1994 MTV Europe Music Award for Best Song for writers Youssou N’Dour, Neneh Cherry, and Cherry’s husband Cameron McVey. It was a track on Youssou N’Dour’s album “The Guide (Wommat)”.

You can listen to the official music video of “7 Seconds” on YouTube: [Youssou N’Dour – 7 Seconds ft. Neneh Cherry]

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