Bassekou Kouyate

Bassekou Kouyate is a Malian musician and master of the ngoni, an ancient lute found across West Africa. Known for combining deep respect for tradition with inventive musicianship, he has collaborated and performed with artists including Ali Farka Touré, Youssou N’Dour, Bela Fleck, Taj Mahal, Damon Albarn and Michael League. He contributed to Ali Farka Touré’s posthumous album Savane, performed in the Symmetric trio with kora player Toumani Diabaté, and took part in Taj Mahal’s Kulanjan project.

Kouyate’s releases include Segu Blue, which received several BBC awards, and I Speak Fula, which was Grammy-nominated. His later albums Jama Ko and BaPower explored a more rock-influenced sound. With his band Ngoni Ba, he returned to a subtler, roots-oriented style on Miri, an album whose themes include love, friendship, family and enduring values. The music reflects his connection to Garana, his hometown on the Niger River. Kouyate’s work is available through recorded albums, and his career includes international concerts and performances.