With his debut single “Wandedu” now released and a second track in the works, rising artist IDY is setting the stage for an explosive year—culminating in the release of his highly anticipated debut EP at the end of 2025.
Born Mayel Idriss BA in Dakar in 1996, the French-Senegalese singer-songwriter brings a powerful blend of roots, rhythm, and raw emotion to every track. “Wandedu”, which means “to ward off spirits” in Yoruba, is not just a song, but a cleansing. An emotional reset. A sonic rite of passage. Shot in Guadeloupe by Jima Kanor, the video radiates warmth, depth, and authenticity, revealing an artist connected to his truth and unafraid to share it.
Before becoming IDY, the artist was known as Skiiny, first taking the stage in the sun-soaked landscapes of Marie-Galante, where music became his language and sanctuary. Tracks like “Maman”, “Dis-moi”, and “Dans ton regard” offered early glimpses into his heartfelt storytelling, tender yet urgent. But 2025 marks a new era: one where the music reflects not just his past, but his purpose.
After a career-reigniting encounter in 2018 with Franco-Malian artist Clayton Hamilton, IDY connected with artists like Fababy and L’Artiste, experiences that shaped his sound, a vibrant fusion of African and Caribbean influences, grounded in soul and identity.
His 2021 single “Amina” served as a farewell to the Skiiny chapter, and the start of something more expansive. Now, under Chabine Prod, IDY is ready to rise.
With a sound rooted in Senegal, refined in the Caribbean, and delivered with unmistakable French flair, IDY stands as a proud voice for Afro-Caribbean youth, passionate, poetic, and principled. He sings of love, justice, hope, and self-discovery, drawing strength from his heritage and dreams of collaborations with icons like Youssou N’Dour, Wizkid, and La Fouine.
“Wandedu” is only the beginning. The journey continues, with more music on the horizon and an EP that promises to solidify IDY as a powerful new presence in the global music scene.
Stream “Wandedu” now:open.spotify.com/track/0LVsu
