Ba Cissoko is a renowned Guinean musician, master of the kora, an iconic instrument of West Africa. Born in 1967 in Koundara, Guinea, Ba Cissoko has followed a fascinating musical journey, blending ancestral traditions and contemporary innovations. From a family of melomans, he first preferred football before turning to kora at the age of 14, under the instruction of his uncle M'Baty Kouyaté.
Since then, Ba Cissoko has established itself as one of the flagship carriers of Guinean music on the world stage, combining tradition and modernity in a unique style that has attracted an ever wider audience. With a rich discography and a remarkable stage presence, he continues to radiate the musical heritage of Guinea, while pushing the boundaries of the kora.
Introduction
Ba Cissoko is a renowned Guinean musician, master of the kora, an iconic instrument of West Africa. Born in 1967 in Koundara, Guinea, Ba Cissoko has followed a fascinating musical journey, blending ancestral traditions and contemporary innovations. From his late kora beginnings to international recognition, his story is that of a passionate artist, who has been able to radiate the richness of Guinean music.
Education
From a family of melomans, Ba Cissoko initially preferred football to music. However, at the age of 14, he eventually turned to the kora, under the instruction of his uncle, M'Baty Kouyaté, another master of the instrument. This late training did not prevent Ba Cissoko from becoming a virtuoso of the kora, developing a personal and innovative style.
Musical career
After his hotel and event debut, Ba Cissoko joined the Tamalalou group in 1992, with which he performed several times in France, before the group dissolved in 1999. It was then that he formed a new group with Sékou Kouyaté, Kourou Kúyaté and Ibrahima Bah "Konkouré". Together, they recorded three albums and made numerous tours in West Africa, Europe and North America.
In 2008, Ba Cissoko recorded a replay of U2's "Sunday Bloody Sunday" on the album "In The Name Of Love: Africa Celebrates U2". The following year, he participated in the World Music Festival in Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland.
His solo albums, such as "Nimissa" (2012) and "Djélia" (2016), confirm his status as an indispensable artist on the European world music scene. His music is distinguished by an amazing blend of traditions and influences, combining ancient rhythms and melodies with more modern sounds, thanks in particular to the use of electro-acoustic instruments.
Discography
- 2003 : Sabolan (Marabi Productions / Harmonia Mundi)
- 2006 : Electric Griot Land (distribué par Harmonia mundi)
- 2009 : Seno (production LaBelMetis (Nuits Métis)/ Frochot Cantos Music / Distribution Pias)
- 2012 : Nimissa (Harmonia Mundi)
- 2016 : Djélia (Cristal Record)
Films
In addition to his musical career, Ba Cissoko has also participated in several film productions, bringing his touch of virtuosity to the soundtrack of several films.
Conclusion
Ba Cissoko has established itself as one of the flagship carriers of Guinean music on the world stage. Combining tradition and modernity, his unique style has succeeded in attracting an ever wider audience, making him one of the most respected artists on the circuit of European world music. With a rich discography and a remarkable stage presence, Ba Cissoko continues to radiate Guinea’s musical heritage, while pushing the boundaries of the kora.
