Seckou Keita is a world-renowned Senegalese musician celebrated primarily for his virtuosic playing of the kora, a traditional West African harp. Born into a griot family, a class of traveling poets, musicians, and storytellers who maintain a tradition of West African history through song, Seckou's lineage is significant; he is a direct descendant of the inventor of the kora. His music is steeped in ancient traditions and influenced by contemporary sounds, and he has successfully brought the magic of the kora to a global audience. Seckou's technique and style have made him one of the most inspiring and innovative kora players of his generation.

Over the years, Seckou Keita has seamlessly bridged the gap between African and Western music, evident in his diversely themed releases such as "Alam Gi" and "African Rhapsodies (A Work for Kora & Symphonic Orchestra)," which showcases his ability to blend the kora with classical symphonies. He has a knack for crafting pieces that allow his instrument's delicate intricacies to shine, as heard in the serenely beautiful "Echo" and the thoughtfully composed "Suba." His unique artistry is not only in the mastery of the kora but also in his ambitious arrangements, as elaborated by Davide Mantovani in works like "I. The Future Strings Variation." Through his music, Seckou Keita tells stories of heritage, unity, and the human spirit, contributing to a growing legacy as a custodian of West African musical heritage and a pioneer in cross-cultural collaborations.

Genres

Kora

Related Artists

Oumou Sangaré

Fatoumata Diawara

Ali Farka Touré

Ballaké Sissoko

Habib Koité

Salif Keita

Bassekou Kouyate

Toumani Diabaté

Vieux Farka Touré

Angelique Kidjo

Sona Jobarteh

Hugh Masekela

Latest Release

Ni mala beugué

Seckou Keita

Single - Released June 7, 2024