SALIF KEITA

KJF 24 brings us one of the biggest names in world music.

Celebrating difference, praising it through music is a theme that has always governed Keita's paths. Keita's fight was tough against the discrimination he was subjected to since he was a child because he was albino, a characteristic linked to bad luck in Mandingo culture. Thus, he moved to Bamako, where he joined the band “Super Rail Band“ and, in 1973, joined “Les Ambassadeurs”.

At the end of the 70s, his merit was recognized, some awards appeared, and in the 80s, he moved to the world music's big stage – Paris, where he caught the attention of producers and musicians such as Zawinul, Carlos Santana, Cesária Évora, among others.

Record “Amén” is the first African album nominated for a Grammy. In his latest album “Un Autre Blanc”, the interest in the musical mix resulting from what the musician has collected over time: Pop Influences, merge with the sounds of Mali, Funk, but the essential is always the typical sound that Keita achieves in a perfect fusion between Africa (where the precious lull of Malian music, or the marked percussions with an elaborate rhythm, are always present) and Pop – the much talked about Afro-Pop that, according to many critics, the musician was the precursor to.

With over 50 years of career, he is now preparing to return to the land where he was born, on the banks of the River Niger, where he wants to be a farmer and rest, leading associations defending albinism.

Cabo Verde, he will have the privilege of receiving the “golden voice” that continues to enchant Africa and the world.