Biography

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Habib Johm

Biography – Habib Sanseh & The Biba Rhythm Band
Habib Sanseh, born Habib Johm, grew up in The Gambia in the Johm-Njie Griot family, where music and storytelling are passed down through generations. From an early age he was surrounded by drumming and instruments such as the Sabar, Tama, Halam, and Marimba, learning directly from his grandfather, uncles, and brothers. Music was not just entertainment, but a way of preserving history and bringing people together.

As a teenager, Habib joined Humanity Starz, a youth music group created by Red Cross volunteers. Through this group, he began performing at community events and spreading messages of unity, humanity, and cultural pride. His early experiences shaped him into a musician with both traditional depth and a modern vision.

Driven by passion, Habib later founded the Biba Rhythm Band (BRB). The group blends Afro, Mbalax, Reggae, Salsa-Mbalax, and Folklore, creating a vibrant sound that bridges cultures and connects audiences. BRB quickly became one of The Gambia’s leading live bands, backing major artists and organizing their own concerts. They have performed at international festivals in Senegal, Morocco, and Europe, including the Bokut Festival, Visa for Music, and the Gambia Roots Homecoming Festival.

What makes the Biba Rhythm Band truly unique is that it is built on family. At its core are three brothers, whose shared upbringing and musical roots create a special harmony on stage. Their deep connection brings authenticity, trust, and unity to every performance — turning each concert into more than music, but a living expression of culture and family spirit.

Beyond the stage, Habib dedicates himself to teaching drumming and traditional instruments, as well as building his own drums. His mission is to keep Gambian heritage alive while making it accessible to new generations worldwide.

VISION

Habib Sanseh

Habib’s vision is simple yet powerful: “To use music, art, and talent as a universal language — creating cultural exchange, fostering unity, and promoting peaceful coexistence among people from all backgrounds.”

Today, Habib Sanseh & The Biba Rhythm Band continue to inspire audiences everywhere, bringing the heartbeat of Africa to weddings, festivals, clubs, and cultural events across the globe.

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what i play

music styles

  • Afro
  • mbalax
  • reggae
  • salsa-mbalax
  • folklore
  • sabar
  • tama
  • halam
  • marimba
Explore

My Story

Childhood

Habib was born into the Johm-Njie Griot family in The Gambia, where music and storytelling are part of everyday life. Surrounded by his grandfather, uncles, and brothers—all skilled musicians—he began playing traditional instruments like the Sabar, Tama, Chung, Halam, and Marimba at an early age.

Teenage

As a teenager, Habib joined his relatives in performing at local ceremonies and cultural events. His passion grew quickly, and he became part of Humanity Starz, a youth music group formed by Red Cross volunteers. Through music, they promoted values such as humanity, unity, and voluntary service, while also creating livelihood opportunities for young Gambian artists.

2000s

Habib’s drive to lead and innovate led to the creation of Biba Rhythm Band. With its mix of Afro, Mbalax, Reggae, Salsa-Mbalax, and Folklore, BRB soon became one of The Gambia’s leading live bands. The group not only backed famous artists but also organized their own successful events and concerts.

2010s

Habib expanded his reach by co-founding groups such as Haley Jamano and performing at major cultural festivals. His journey has taken him to events like the Bokut Festival in Senegal, Visa for Music Festival in Morocco, the Gambia Roots Homecoming Festival, and the Gambia Independence Cultural Festival, among many others.

2015-2023

Beyond performing, Habib has dedicated himself to teaching drumming and local instruments to people from diverse cultures. He has worked with both Gambian and international artists, contributing percussion to albums and live shows. His collaborations highlight the timeless power of rhythm in connecting people.

Today

Habib continues to lead Biba Rhythm Band, now made up of nine seasoned musicians. He builds drums, offers lessons, performs worldwide, and shares his vision: “to use music, art, and talent to create cultural exchange for world unification and peaceful coexistence.”

 

Early Childhood
Teenage Years
2000s
2010s
2015-2023
Today

Address

Kololi - Gambia

Contacts

+220 374 1038 / +220 782 6754
johmhabib8@gmail.com

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