Omar Sy Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Look at Cameo in DJ Snake’s Migration-Themed ‘Patience’ Short: ‘It Wasn’t About Discovering My Roots’ but ‘Honoring Them’ (EXCLUSIVE)

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On Thursday, I was thrilled to witness DJ Snake unveiling the powerful music video for his latest track “Patience.” This heartfelt project, with a compelling message about the struggles of migrants, features none other than Omar Sy, known for his role in “Lupin.

This track offers a fresh interpretation of the acclaimed 2008 song “Sabali” by the West African music duo Amadou & Mariam.

DJ Snake shared with EbMaster via email that he would frequently play a track on constant replay. One time, he played a loop from an edit he had been refining for his team, and everyone sensed the same thing: this was extraordinary. That instance marked the start of ‘Patience.’

Instead of merely publishing a tune, he expressed that he desired more; he sought to infuse it with meaning and significance. The migrant predicament is frequently portrayed as mere statistics and news items, yet beneath these facets lie tales of optimism, sorrow, and bravery.

Apart from the “Patience” music video, a brief movie was created in Senegal as well. This movie has earned EbMaster an exclusive sneak peek into the making of it (see above for the behind-the-scenes footage).

A video, produced and co-written by Valentin Guidot from France, portrays the emotional odyssey of a young African immigrant, with appearances by Sy and Amadou & Mariam. Regrettably, Amadou passed away in April. The song “Patience” was recently released, only a few weeks following his demise.

DJ Snake stated, “Omar Sy is more like family to me,” and this connection made the project incredibly sincere and emotionally resonant.

Sy discusses the “Patience” project with EbMaster, a collaboration they worked on together that Sy also helped produce. The aim was to add depth and attention to the ongoing discussion.

Simply put, what drew you to want to participate with a cameo in this project?

My motivation for joining this project lies in its exploration of aspects that resonate profoundly with our humanity: the pursuit of security, respect, and improved living conditions. Migration, frequently portrayed as mere numbers or sensational news, is actually comprised of individual experiences, personal narratives, and daring leaps taken out of either optimism or necessity. Personally, I’ve witnessed how these accounts are frequently misconstrued, particularly from a Western viewpoint.

When DJ Snake and Birth (the producers) presented me with a powerful, poetic song that employs music and emotion to alter the narrative, I was drawn to contribute, even if it was just a cameo, and collaborate on this project by having my company in Senegal involved, with the aim of increasing visibility and depth to the discussion.

How long have you known DJ Snake?

I first encountered DJ Snake more than ten years back through mutual acquaintances, and since then, we’ve grown quite close. Over the years, we’ve collaborated on numerous projects, backing each other up in both personal and professional endeavors. Additionally, we find ourselves sympathetic to similar humanitarian issues, which played a significant role in creating the “Patience” video, as it stemmed from our shared sentiments.

As a second-generation son of West African immigrants, what is your rapport with Senegal and how did it feel to be there to shoot this piece?

Being the child of immigrants from West Africa, specifically Senegal and Mauritania, my heritage is not just a piece of my narrative; it’s an integral part of my everyday existence. I frequent Senegal multiple times each year, have a residence there, and we even established a production company within its borders. To me, it’s not merely a destination I travel to, but rather, it’s home!

Filming “Patience” in Senegal carried a unique strength. It wasn’t about uncovering my ancestry, but rather about paying tribute to it. It was about utilizing my talents to illuminate narratives that resonate profoundly with me and my community.

What strikes you the most about the plight of immigrants depicted in the video for “Patience”?

What truly stands out is the profound selflessness displayed in each migrant’s voyage. Leaving one’s home, loved ones, and ancestral ties isn’t done for pleasure or convenience; it’s a decision birthed from necessity, peril, and the fight to survive. The video poignantly illustrates this sorrow. Simultaneously, it serves as a warning for those who see Europe as a solution. All too frequently, what follows is disappointment, rejection, strife, and a loss of self-worth.

Patience” embodies two aspects: the sorrowful farewell and the stark reality that usually follows. The ambiance on set was a harmonious mix of happiness and intensity. Valentin Guiot, our director, infuses poetry into his craft. His ability to capture both the aesthetics and emotional layers is commendable.

Tell me more about the atmosphere on set.

In the core of the villages, we filmed with locals who warmly embraced us. There was dancing, joy, genuine camaraderie. It seemed as if we were all integrated into their community. What made an impression was how effortlessly we synced with their local pace. Unlike in Europe or the U.S., time there doesn’t feel like a race or a burden. Instead, it moves at a slower, more organic speed, making us feel fully engrossed, both artistically and emotionally.

Are there any other considerations you would like to make?

As a film enthusiast, let me take a moment to extend my heartfelt appreciation to DJ Snake and the entire team for bestowing upon me the opportunity to contribute to such a profound cinematic endeavor. I am equally thankful for working alongside the exceptionally gifted actors Anna Thiandoum and Alassane Diong, whose talent and commitment infused our story with genuine depth and emotion. This shared creative journey has been an unforgettable experience, one that I feel privileged to have embarked upon alongside each of you. Lastly, a sincere thank you to the people of Senegal for their warmth and generosity – they truly made this project special.

Finally, I’d like to dedicate this project as a tribute to the memory of Amadou Bagayoko, who sadly passed away not long ago. His wife Mariam and he are the foundation for this music project, with its inspiration and sampling drawn from their own song “Sabali.” Amadou embodied peace and love in every way. My deepest sympathies and thoughts are with Mariam, his wife and musical collaborator.

Watch the “Patience” video here.

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2025-06-06 16:17