Lil Saako, whose real name is Mouctar Diop, is a Guinean artist born in 1991 who has established himself as one of the most innovative figures in the West African musical scene. Originating in the popular Coléah-centre district of Conakry, this dancing prodigy who has become a singer has brilliantly combined traditional Guinean influences and modern hip-hop, creating a unique style that has earned him a loud hit.
His single "Zapata", which became viral in 2022, mixing intriguing rhythms and debilitated choreography, has made him a real star beyond the borders of his country, both among the general public and critics who praise his contribution to African musical culture.
Introduction
Lil Saako, whose real name is Mouctar Diop, is a Guinean artist born in 1991 who has been able to mark the music scene of his country and beyond. With his unique style mixing traditional Guinean influences and modern hip-hop, he has established himself as one of the most innovative voices in West Africa. His journey is that of a kid from the popular neighborhoods of Conakry who transformed his passion for dance and music into a loud success.
Early life and Education
Born in Conakry, the capital of Guinea, Lil Saako grew up in the lively Coléah-centre neighborhood. From an early age, he was attracted to music and dance, often performing in the streets of his neighborhood. This early immersion in the rich Guinean artistic culture shaped his unique style, impregnating his future creations with unparalleled authenticity.
Early musical career
It was by joining the band Instinct Killers as a teenager that Lil Saako truly launched his musical career. Initially a dancer in the band, he gradually established himself as a singer from 2011, forming a dynamic duo with Fish Killer. Together, they released several successful albums with Instinct Killers, including "Nouvelle Expérience" in 2004 and the acclaimed "Akhril Djaman" in 2016.
Successes
The real turning point in Lil Saako's career came in 2022 with the release of his solo single "Zapata". This thrilling song, skillfully mixing the influences of Guinea and the city, has become a real viral phenomenon, accumulating more than a million views on YouTube in Guinea. The playful choreography and the captivating refrain made "Zapata" a must-see of parties and social networks.
Instinct Killers
Lil Saako owes much of his success to the band Instinct Killers, of which he was a founding member as a teenager. It was within this flagship formation of the Guinean hip-hop scene that the young Mouctar Diop, then a simple dancer, made his first steps in the music industry. After first illustrating himself on stage by his choreographic skills, he gradually established himself as a singer from 2011, forming a very prolific duo with Fish Killer. Together, they released several successful albums with Instinct Killers, including the very popular "Akhril Djaman" in 2016.
It was finally in 2022 that the band decided to launch their two star artists into a solo career, allowing Lil Saako to fully express his unique style through hits such as the now legendary "Zapata". Although his current personal success is resounding, the artist does not forget his roots and regularly pays tribute to Instinct Killers, the group that revealed him to the world.
Discography
Albums
- "Nkongni Daakhi" (2023, album solo)
Singles
- "Zapata" (2022)
- "Yolé Dance" (2023)
- "Igboroka" (2023)
- "A Mouncé" (2023)
Collaborations
- "SILY-GBINGBIN-SO" avec Thiird (2024, hymne officiel du Syli National)
Awards and recognitions
"Zapata"'s outstanding success earned Lil Saako many awards, including the Special Jury Award at the 2022 Guinean Music Victory and the title of Best Urban Artist in Francophone Africa the same year at the Stars Awards Nights in Mali. His song has even been recorded by acrobates of Guinean origin in the semi-finals of America's Got Talent, testifying to its international reach.
Private life
Although discreet about his personal life, it is known that Lil Saako is married and was the victim of a theft of 200 million Guinean francs in January 2023 when bandits broke the window of his car to steal a bag containing that money.
Thanks to his immense success, Lil Saako has become one of the most fortunate Guinean artists. In 2019, he realized his dream of acquiring a Hummer 3, becoming the first Guinean artist to own this luxury vehicle.
Conclusion
Lil Saako's journey is a wonderful illustration of how talent, hard work and authenticity can lead to success. Drawing into the cultural roots of his country while embracing modern influences, he has been able to create a unique style that has attracted fans from all over the world. With the recent signing of a contract with Universal Music France, there is no doubt that the Guinean artist will continue to marvel us with his overflowing music of energy and originality.
