Ablaye Cissoko is a Senegalese kora player and singer who has gracefully woven the rich tapestry of West African music traditions with contemporary sounds and global influences. Born into a family of Griots – the traditional class of West African poet-musicians – Cissoko has been honing his craft since childhood, mastering the 21-stringed kora, an instrument emblematic of the region's cultural heritage. His music artfully bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, celebrating the past while engaging with the present.

Cissoko's discography stands as a testament to his versatility and deep-rooted musicality. With releases like "Instant" and "Traversées," he demonstrates an innate ability to create music that resonates with universal emotions while rooted in his own cultural identity. The lyrical "Soutouro" and contemplative "Au loin" highlight his soul-stirring vocal delivery paired with his intricate kora playing, creating an immersive auditory experience. His collaborations, evident in works such as "Jardins migrateurs," reveal his open-hearted approach to musical exploration, showing a willingness to transcend geographical and genre boundaries. Ablaye Cissoko continues to enchant audiences around the world, sharing the rich soundscape of his heritage with an ever-appreciative global audience.

Genres

Griot

Kora

Related Artists

Vieux Farka Touré

Ali Farka Touré

Fatoumata Diawara

Youssou N'Dour

Habib Koité

Salif Keita

Bassekou Kouyate

Toumani Diabaté

Baaba Maal

Oumou Sangaré

Ballaké Sissoko

Seckou Keita

Latest Release

Nite

Ablaye Cissoko

Album - 11 Tracks - Released December 16, 2022