Musique Mandingue, or Manding music, is a rich genre, embodying the cultural essence of the Mandé peoples of West Africa. It is characterized by its lyrical storytelling and intricate rhythms, echoing the region's historical traditions and social narratives. The genre features traditional instruments such as the kora (a 21-string harp-lute), balafon (wooden xylophone), and ngoni (a stringed instrument), creating a melodic interplay that is at once haunting and uplifting. Artists like Toumani Diabaté and Ballaké Sissoko are renowned for their expert kora playing, while vocalists such as Nahawa Doumbia combine poignant vocals with the polyrhythmic backdrop unique to West African music. This genre preserves and celebrates the Manding heritage, weaving ancestral tales into a tapestry of sound that resonates with contemporary audiences while staying rooted in tradition.

Borne on the Wind

Piers Faccini•

Ballaké Sissoko

Single - Released December 13, 2024