Malian kora master Toumani Diabate is renowned for his daring musical collaborations. His latest band, AfroCubism, blends together the sounds of West Africa with Cuba.
Toumani Diabate - AfroCubism —
Malian kora master Toumani Diabate is renowned for his daring musical collaborations. His latest band, AfroCubism, blends together the sounds of West Africa with Cuba.
CNN
AfroCubism recorded their long-awaited album in 2010 in Madrid, Spain, over four days. The band is currently on their second North American tour, spreading their vibrant sound to new audiences.
AfroCubism on tour —
AfroCubism recorded their long-awaited album in 2010 in Madrid, Spain, over four days. The band is currently on their second North American tour, spreading their vibrant sound to new audiences.
CNN
Cuban singer and guitar player Eliades Ochoa is one of the most high-profile names in AfroCubism. The legendary musician was one of the younger members of the Buena Vista Social Club.
Cuban legend Eliades Ochoa —
Cuban singer and guitar player Eliades Ochoa is one of the most high-profile names in AfroCubism. The legendary musician was one of the younger members of the Buena Vista Social Club.
AFP/Getty Images
Diabate was born in Bamako, the capital of Mali, in 1965. He plays the kora, a 21-string harp-like instrument from West Africa.
Kora master —
Diabate was born in Bamako, the capital of Mali, in 1965. He plays the kora, a 21-string harp-like instrument from West Africa.
CNN
He's discovered a way to play the kora as bass, rhythm and as a solo istrument, all at the same time.
Kora master —
He's discovered a way to play the kora as bass, rhythm and as a solo istrument, all at the same time.
CNN
Diabate was 21 when he recorded his first album, "Kaira," in 1986. His recording debut is regarded as the first ever solo kora album and remains a bestseller.
Toumani Diabate —
Diabate was 21 when he recorded his first album, "Kaira," in 1986. His recording debut is regarded as the first ever solo kora album and remains a bestseller.
CNN
Diabate woos the audience at the Island Festival in Budapest, Hungary, on 11 August 2006.
Toumani Diabate —
Diabate woos the audience at the Island Festival in Budapest, Hungary, on 11 August 2006.
AFP/Getty Images