Ben Aylon

Ben Aylon is a percussion virtuoso, xalam player, and producer known for his innovative approach to Senegalese drumming and strings. Over the past 15 years, under the mentorship of legendary drummers Doudou Ndiaye Rose and Aly Ndiaye Rose, Ben has developed a distinctive style that elevates traditional Senegalese drumming to new heights of musical expression. His solo act, One Man Tribe, captures the essence of massive Senegalese drum ensembles, transforming it into a powerful ten-piece drum set solo performance, earning the respect of both Senegalese iconic musicians and audiences. Along his journey, he discovered the xalam, a traditional Senegalese string instrument, with which he composes the soundtrack of his travels. His ongoing documentary work in Senegal and beyond preserves rare footage of master drummers and traditional ceremonies in contemporary settings, building a comprehensive archive of the region’s musical heritage through his personal journey. Ben’s mission focuses on uniting people from diverse cultures and religions through rhythm, prayer, and collaboration. Main collaborations: Kodo • Doudou N'Diaye Rose • Cheikh Lô • Omar Pene • Shye Ben Tzur Photos by Ran Shneck