Salif Keita has been called the "golden voice of Mali" and a pioneer of the music called Afro-pop.

NPR: Salif Keita Returns to Mali's Traditional Sounds

In the film, with its thematic concern with the freeing influence of music, Tarek insists that Walter listen to Afro-pop star Fela Kuti.

NPR: Learning to Drum �� and Live �� in 'The Visitor'

At the base of his sound is mbalax, Senegal's traditional griot percussion and praise-singing music, filtered through Afro-Cuban, pop and rock sensibilities.

NPR: Youssou N'Dour, 'Egypt' and Islam