Wassoulou

Wassoulou is a vibrant folk music genre originating from the Wassoulou region of Mali, marked by its rich cultural influences and distinct sound. It's characterized by the use of the kamale ngoni—a six-stringed hunter's harp, whose rhythmic patterns lay a foundation for the music's hypnotic groove. Percussion plays a crucial role, with calabashes and djembe drums accentuating the melody. Wassoulou's lyrical themes often revolve around social issues, women's rights, and love, offering a voice to the underrepresented. Female artists dominate the scene, their powerful, wailing vocal performances imbuing the songs with emotional depth. This genre's blend of traditional and contemporary elements creates a soundscape that is both uniquely West African and universally appealing.

Latest Wassoulou Release
undefined album image
Lamomali Totem
Album - 12 Tracks - Released April 25, 2025
Top Artists Spotify Logo
Fatoumata Diawara
Oumou Sangaré
N'Gou Bagayoko
Rokia Traoré
MALIAN
Abou Diarra
Top Playlists
World Music 🌍 6 Wassoulou artists
The Sound of Balafon 1 Wassoulou artist
The Sound of Musique Peule 1 Wassoulou artist

RecentMusic users are tracking 25 Wassoulou artists for new releases, and have access to the full timeline of 203 releases .

Join them and feed your new music addiction, and add the Wassoulou artists you love!

Get Started Browse Arists
  1. April 25, 2025
  2. April 24
  3. April 24
  4. April 24
  5. April 24
  6. April 24
  7. April 18
  8. April 14
  9. March 19
  10. February 11
  11. January 24
  12. January 16
  13. November 7, 2024
  14. October 4
  15. August 16
  16. July 19
  17. June 14
  18. April 5
  19. March 26
  20. March 15
  21. January 26
  22. November 16, 2023
  23. October 31
  24. July 28
  25. June 23
  26. May 12
  27. May 5
  28. May 5
  29. April 12
  30. March 17
    undefined album image
    Edda
    1 tracks
  31. December 9, 2022
  32. December 1
  33. November 18
  34. November 18
  35. November 15
  36. October 28
  37. June 5
  38. April 29
  39. April 14
  40. March 11