For lovers of world music, February in Sofia just got a whole lot more exciting. Malian maestro Bassekou Kouyate and his wife, the exceptional vocalist Amy Sacko, are set to grace the stage of club Singles for two intimate concerts on February 7 and 8, courtesy of “Alarma Punk Jazz”, alongside the platform for traditional and contemporary African music “AfroVision”. It’s been six years since Kouyate last performed in Bulgaria with his band Ngoni Ba, and his return offers the perfect opportunity to delve into the remarkable journey of this musical innovator.
The Master of the Ngoni
Bassekou Kouyate is a name that resonates across the global music scene. A virtuoso of the ngoni – an ancient West African lute – he has revolutionized its sound, pushing boundaries while preserving its deep-rooted traditions. His electrifying performances have earned him comparisons to rock guitar legends, and his ability to bend notes has been described by Time Out magazine as akin to “light rays in the desert heat.”
Born in Garana (Mali) Kouyate hails from a family of griots – musicians and storytellers who have passed down their art for over 70 generations. However, he was the first in his lineage to electrify the traditional ngoni instrument, bringing its hypnotic melodies to new audiences worldwide.
photo by Sofia from Sofia: Bassekou Kouyate during Ngoni Ba’s concert in Sofia (2019)
Collaborations and Global Recognition
Kouyate’s musical journey has connected him with some of the most respected names in the industry. From early collaborations with Ali Farka Touré and Toumani Diabaté to working with Taj Mahal, Bela Fleck, and Damon Albarn, his artistry has reached audiences worldwide. He played a key role in Ali Farka Touré’s acclaimed album Savane and has performed alongside legends like Paul McCartney, John Paul Jones, and Bono. His ability to infuse the ngoni’s ancient tones with elements of blues, rock, and jazz has cemented his reputation as a groundbreaking artist on the world stage.
A Dreamlike New Chapter: Djudjon
Kouyate’s latest album, Djudjon (L’Oiseau de Garana), released in 2024 by One World Records, marks a significant chapter in his career. For the first time, he and Amy Sacko share full songwriting credits, crafting a deeply personal and expressive record. The album quickly climbed to the number one spot on the World Music Charts Europe, solidifying their place as Mali’s leading musical duo.
Kouyate first gained international recognition with Segu Blue, a tribute to his Malian roots that won multiple BBC World Music Awards. He followed up with I Speak Fula, a Grammy-nominated effort that further expanded the ngoni’s reach. With albums Jama Ko and Ba Power, he brought a raw, electrifying energy to his sound, embracing rock influences. More recently, he returned to a more introspective and traditional approach with Miri, reflecting on love and personal contemplation. Djudjon continues this evolution, marking his most collaborative and celebrated work with Amy Sacko to date.
photo by Sofia from Sofia: Amy Sacko during Ngoni Ba’s concert in Sofia (2019)
A Special Performance in Sofia
This February, audiences in Sofia will witness something extraordinary: an intimate, chamber-style concert where Kouyate and Sacko strip their music to its essence. With only 150 seats per night, these performances promise a rare closeness between artists and audience, a space where each note and lyric resonates deeply.
The music of Bassekou Kouyate and Amy Sacko connects past and present, bridging continents and cultures. Whether you’ve followed their journey for years or are just discovering their artistry, their upcoming concerts in Sofia promise an unforgettable experience. Let the sounds of Mali transport you as two of its finest musical storytellers take center stage once more.
Tickets are available at EpayGo. The Facebook event is here.
Text: Sofia Hussein for Dinya
Cover photo: Ibrahim Kaba
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