Kassé-Mady Diabaté, a scion of one of Mali’s most illustrious musical families, was a revered figure in African music and a custodian of the deep-rooted griot tradition. Born on August 15, 1949, in Kela, a village known for its significant contribution to the Manding musical heritage, Kassé-Mady hailed from a line of distinguished musicians, including his grandfather who was a legendary singer in his own right. He grew into his role as a griot, a traditional West African historian, storyteller, praise singer, poet, and musician, becoming one of the most celebrated voices of Mali.

His music career spanned several decades, with a discography showcasing his sonorous voice and emotive delivery. Among his accolaries, a notable work is the album "Kassi Kasse (Music From The Heart Of Mali's Griot Tradition)," a testament to his deep immersion in the Griot tradition of storytelling through song. His other significant releases such as "Kiriké" (also known as "Horse's saddle"), "Manden Djeli Kan," and "Kela Tradition" further exhibit his mastery in blending traditional Malian sounds with contemporary influences while maintaining the integrity of the Manding musical narrative. Kassé-Mady Diabaté remained a vital thread in the fabric of West African music until his passing in 2018, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate within the world of music.

Genres

Desert Blues

Griot

Guinean Pop

Mande Pop

Musique Mandingue

West African Jazz

Latest Release

Kassemady Diabate & Layeda Bagahga

Kassé-Mady Diabaté

Single - Released April 11, 2015