Lama Sidibé (born 27 January 1965 in Mamou) is a Guinean composer-songwriter. From the popular neighborhood of Horé Fello in the heart of Fouta Djalon, this talented artist has been able to brilliantly combine Mandinguese and peul influences in his music, creating a unique style that has seduced audiences around the world. True ambassador of the culture of Guinea,
Lama Sidibé has illustrated himself with successful albums such as "Falaama", "Seguelere" with the global track "Mari Faala", and "Fouta". Rewarded with numerous awards including the prestigious "African Djembe Awards" in the United States, he is now considered an indispensable icon of contemporary African music.
Introduction
Lama Sidibé (born 27 January 1965 in Mamou, Guinea) is a Guinean singer-songwriter and songwriter. This talented artist has been able to brilliantly combine Mandingue and Pule influences in his music, captivating audiences around the world. Trace his inspiring journey, from his humble beginnings in Mamou to his international radiance.
Childhood
Born in the popular neighborhood of Horé Fello in Mamou, in the heart of Fouta Djalon, Lama Sidibé grew up in an environment deeply rooted in the peule culture. From an early age, he was immersed in the traditional melodies and enchanting rhythms of this mountainous region. It was at school that he began to engage in musical and theatrical activities, thus demonstrating his early talent for the performing arts.
Carrier start
At the age of 19, Lama Sidibé made his first steps into the professional world of music by playing alongside saxophonist Bigné Doumbouya on the legendary Paillote de Conakry. This experience was decisive in shaping his unique style. Subsequently, he joined the band Nimba Jazz in Nzérékoré, thus broadening his musical horizon. At the same time, he founded his first professional group, "Muydhe" (Le Destin), with whom he organized many cultural events in Guinea.
Musical career
In 1995, Lama Sidibé made a crucial step by recording her first solo album, "A welilan", in Abidjan. A year later, he released "Falaama" (Desire in Poular), a record that was a big success and allowed him to start a tour across West Africa. His talent was quickly recognised beyond Guinea's borders, and he was invited to perform in Europe and the United States.
With the album "Seguelere" (Epervier in poular) in 2003, recorded in Burkina Faso, Lama Sidibé strengthened his notoriety thanks to the global track "Mari Faala". Since then, he has recorded record successes, such as "Safari" in 2009, "Photo" in 2012 and "Fouta" in 2014, consolidating his position as a leading figure in Guinean music.
Discography
- 1996 : A welilan
- 1998 : Falaama
- 2003 : Seguelere
- 2009 : Safari
- 2010 : Mbertde An Nden Waalike (Tube planétaire)
- 2012 : Photo
- 2014 : Fouta
- 2015 : Foutaproduit (sorti aux USA) et Ko Allah Wallata (sorti en Guinée)
Awards and Recognitions
Thro his rich career, Lama Sidibé has been rewarded many times for his invaluable contribution to African culture. In 1999, he was the first African to receive the prestigious "African Djembe Awards", a prize honouring the promotion of African culture in the United States. In addition, the Guinean Red Cross awarded him the title of Ambassador in recognition of his commitment to the institution.
More recently, in 2022, Lama Sidibé was honoured at the Victories of Guinean Music with a Trophy of Excellence, highlighting the importance of his musical heritage.
Conclusion
Lama Sidibé is a true ambassador of Guinean music on the international stage. With his powerful voice and unparalleled talent as a songwriter, he has transcended cultural boundaries and touched millions of hearts around the world. Her exceptional career, marked by discographic successes and prestigious recognitions, makes her an indispensable icon of contemporary African music. There is no doubt that this outstanding artist will continue to shine on the firmament of the world music scene, perpetuating Guinea’s rich and diverse heritage.
