Variously described as a ‘griot’ (praise singer), composer, djembe master, virtuoso and pioneer, Seckou Keita is a rare type of musician, seated in tradition while constantly pushing the boundaries of his art.
He has arguably become the most influential and inspiring Kora player of his generation, an exceptional and charismatic musician. Through his recent solo album 22 Strings, he explores what it means to be a modern global citizen, and yet to live with seven centuries of tradition and heritage expressed through music. Seckou gives us the kora in its purest guise, a wondrous instrument that can soothe the bloodlust of warriors and take the human spirit to a place of deep meditation, stillness and beauty.
Photo credit: Andy Morgan