Ballaké Sissoko is a celebrated Malian virtuoso of the kora, a traditional 21-string West African harp. Born into a prestigious lineage of griots—hereditary musicians and storytellers who play a vital role in preserving the cultural history of West Africa—Sissoko has been mastering the kora since his childhood under the tutelage of his father, Djelimady Sissoko, who was a renowned kora player himself. Throughout his career, Ballaké has become known for his evocative compositions, blending the rich musical traditions of Mali with a wide array of international influences.

Sissoko's work often crosses genres and borders, resulting in collaborative projects that are as innovative as they are entrancing. His most recent releases showcase his versatility and innate ability to synergize with artists from varied musical backgrounds. Collaborations with the likes of French cellist Vincent Segal have become a hallmark of his expansive body of work. With albums such as "Djourou," which features multiple cross-cultural partnerships, and performances like "Nan Sira Madi - A COLORS SHOW," Ballaké Sissoko continues to enchant audiences with his sublime mastery over the kora's strings, crafting soundscapes that are both deeply rooted in Malian tradition and universally appealing in their beauty and complexity.

Genres

Afropop

Kora

Malian Blues

Mallet

Mande Pop

Musique Mandingue

World

Related Artists

Salif Keita

Ali Farka Touré

Oumou Sangaré

Habib Koité

Rokia Traoré

Amadou & Mariam

Vincent Ségal

Vieux Farka Touré

Tinariwen

Toumani Diabaté

Abdullah Ibrahim

Omar Sosa

Latest Release

Radicants

Ballaké Sissoko•

Lorenzo Bianchi Hoesch

Album - 8 Tracks - Released September 20, 2024