On Thursday, DJ Snake launched the music video for his new song “Patience,” a personal project with a
a message of advocacy on the plight of migrants starring “Lupin’s” Omar Sy.
The track is a reimagining of West African musical duo Amadou & Mariam’s celebrated 2008 song “Sabali.”
“I used to listen to it on repeat,” DJ Snake told Variety via email. “One day, I played a loop from an edit I had been working on for my team, and everyone felt the same thing: this was something special. That moment sparked the beginning of ‘Patience.’
“But I didn’t want to just release a song,” he added. “I felt the urge to give it depth and purpose. The migrant crisis is often reduced to numbers and headlines, but behind it are stories of hope, loss and courage.”
Besides the music video, “Patience” also spawned a short film shot in Senegal to which Variety has been given an exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary clip (watch above).
The video and short, written and directed by France’s Valentin Guidot, capture the emotional journey of a young African migrant and feature cameos from Sy and Amadou & Mariam themselves. Sadly, Amadou died in April. The release of “Patience” comes just a few weeks after his passing.
“Omar Sy is a close friend,” said DJ Snake. “Having him involved gave the project a lot of heart and intention.”
Below, Sy speaks with Variety about his collaboration on the “Patience” project, which he also co-produced, “to help bring more visibility and nuance to the conversation.”
Simply put, what drew you to want to participate with a cameo in this project?
I wanted to be part of this project because it touches on something deeply human: the search for safety, dignity and a better life. Migration is often reduced to statistics or headlines, but behind every journey there’s a person, a story, a risk taken out of hope or desperation. I’ve seen firsthand how these stories are misunderstood, especially from a Western perspective.
So when DJ Snake and Birth (the producers) approached me with this powerful, poetic piece that uses music and emotion to shift the narrative, I felt compelled to participate even just with a cameo and co- producing this project with my company in Senegal to help bring more visibility and nuance to the conversation.
How long have you known DJ Snake?
I met DJ Snake over 10 years ago through mutual friends, and we’ve been close ever since. We’ve done a lot together over the years, supporting each other’s projects, both personal and professional. We also share the same sensitivity when it comes to important human causes, so the “Patience” video really came out of that shared connection.
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?
As the son of West African immigrants, Senegalese and Mauritanian, my roots aren’t just part of my story, they’re part of my daily life. I go to Senegal several times a year, I have a home there, and we’ve built a production company there too. It’s more than a place I visit, it’s home!
So being able to shoot “Patience” in Senegal was powerful in a different way. It wasn’t about discovering my roots, it was about honoring them. About using myself to shed light on stories that matter deeply to me and my community.
What strikes you the most about the plight of immigrants depicted in the video for “Patience”?
What strikes me most is the depth of sacrifice behind every migrant’s journey. No one leaves their home, family and roots by choice or for comfort. It’s a decision born of urgency, danger and survival. The video makes that heartbreak visible. At the same time, it’s a wake-up call for those who believe Europe is the answer. Too often, what awaits is disillusionment, rejection, struggle and the loss of dignity.
“Patience” shows both sides: the pain of leaving, and the harsh truth of what’s often found. The atmosphere on set was a beautiful blend of joy and emotion. Valentin Guiot, the director, brings a poetic touch to his work. His eye for framing and emotional depth is remarkable.
Tell me more about the atmosphere on set.
We were filming in the heart of the villages, surrounded by locals who welcomed us with open arms. There was dancing, laughter, real connection. It felt like we were all part of the community. What stood out was how naturally we adapted to the local rhythm. In Europe or the U.S., time often feels like pressure, like a race. But there, time flows differently. It’s more human, more present. That shift in tempo allowed us to be fully immersed, both creatively and emotionally.
Are there any other considerations you would like to make?
I just want to express my deepest gratitude to DJ Snake and the entire team for inviting me to be part of such a meaningful project. And thank you to the incredible actors Anna Thiandoum and Alassane Diong I had the privilege to work alongside, their talent and dedication brought authenticity and soul to the story. This journey was a collective effort, and I’m honored to have shared it with each of you. A special thank you to the people of Senegal for their warmth and generosity.
Lastly, I want to dedicate this project to the memory of Amadou Bagayoko, who passed away recently. He and his wife Mariam are the root of this musical project inspired and sampled by their own song “Sabali.” Amadou was a true symbol of peace and love. Of course, my heart and thoughts go out to Mariam, his wife and musical partner.
Watch the “Patience” video here.
