Habib Koité is a revered Malian musician known for his unique guitar playing style and the rich tapestry of cultural influences he weaves into his music. Born in 1958 in Thiès, Senegal, to a noble line of Khassonké griots—traditional performers who serve as storytellers, historians, and entertainers—Koité was immersed in the vast heritage of West African music from an early age. He studied music at the National Institute of Arts in Bamako, Mali's capital, and gained notable attention for his approach to playing the guitar in a manner akin to the ngoni (a traditional Malian lute) or the kora (a West African harp).

Throughout his career, Habib Koité has released a succession of critically acclaimed albums. His debut album, "Muso Ko," released in 1995, brought him to international prominence. This was followed by other successful albums like "Ma Ya," "Baro," "Afriki," and "Soo," each showcasing his ability to blend various musical genres while maintaining a distinct Malian sound. In "Fôly! - Live Around the World," Koité captured the dynamic energy of his live performances, endearing him further to world music enthusiasts. His more recent works such as "Kharifa" and the singles "Yafa (Radio Edit)" and "Before You" continue to display his evolution as an artist who honors tradition while remaining effortlessly contemporary. Habib Koité's voice and melodies are celebrated not just for their technical excellence but for their ability to convey profound emotion, bridging cultural divides and resonating with audiences around the globe.

Genres

Afropop

Griot

Mande Pop

World

Related Artists

Amadou & Mariam

Toumani Diabaté

Ali Farka Touré

Oumou Sangaré

Fatoumata Diawara

Rokia Traoré

Vieux Farka Touré

Boubacar Traoré

Tinariwen

Salif Keita

Ballaké Sissoko

Mamani Keïta

Latest Release

Yafa (Radio Edit)

Habib Koité

Single - Released June 30, 2023