DJ Bobo is probably best known for the 2003 global hit, 'Chihuahua.' It was this top-selling single that consolidated the fame of the Swiss artist who has been on the music scene since the mid 1980s. Rene Baumann – started out as a DJ in 1985, quickly establishing his reputation at home, as well as in Germany, Austria and Eastern Europe.
By the early nineties he branched out into singing, dancing and composing, chalking up Europe-wide top ten hits such as 'Dance with me' and being voted 'World's best-selling Swiss recording artist of the Year' at the 1995 World Music Awards. DJ Bobo has earned ten gold discs, seven platinum discs and one diamond disc. He manages to masterfully interweave rap music with dance and visual effects to create breath-taking shows such as the 2005 'Pirates of the Dance,' wowing audiences and filling stadiums across Europe. DJ Bobo’s participation in the 2006 Geneva Walk the World marked the beginning of ties with WFP. These were further strengthened and developed when he became a WFP National Ambassador Against Hunger in October 2006.
His status as an international musician will help him raise awareness for those whose voices have been weakened by hunger. "Travelling around the world has made me sensitive to human suffering. It is a privilege to be able to help," he said regarding his new role.
Within six months of becoming a WFP Ambassador, DJ Bobo visited Tigray in Ethiopia -- one of the country's most food insecure places -- and seeing firsthand how WFP uses food aid to assist school children, farmers and HIV/AIDS sufferers.
Profession: Internationally-renowned Swiss music artist.
WFP National Ambassador Against Hunger since: October 2006
