Djékady

Djékady is a vibrant six-piece band born from the creative partnership between Grammy-winning cellist Mike Block and Malian balafon player Balla Kouyaté. The name "Djékady" means "coming together is good" in Mandinka, and their music beautifully weaves together Malian traditions with American folk and contemporary styles. The group includes talented musicians from both Africa and the U.S., featuring instruments such as balafon, cello, djembe, talking drum, guitar, and bass, creating a rich, cross-cultural sound that celebrates global connection and musical dialogue.

Balla Kouyaté comes from an 800-year-old lineage of griots—West African storytellers and musicians—while Mike Block brings his background in classical, folk, and jazz traditions from the U.S. Their collaboration grew from mutual respect and the desire to push musical boundaries without limitations. Together with their bandmates, they deliver energetic performances full of joy, trust, and blending of cultures, evident on their debut album *Benkan* released in 2025.