The griots represent the collective memory of Western Africa. At once musicians, historians, genealogists and praise-sayers, they pass on a very rich musical and oral tradition from father to son. Known in Mali as djeli, they often accompany themselves on the kora – a magnificent 21-string plucked harp-lute, regarded as the most perfect African instrument of its type – but also on the balafon (xylophone) or the djembé (type of drum). The Bambara language, spoken by two-thirds of the population, is a greatvehicle for literature (epics, stories, songs and prayers). These songs,relating the events of life, are a symbol of African culture.
Tracks and Samples:
- Kelemagni (6:49)
- Famadinke (10:35)
- Sara kankelinti (8:34)
- Mogosebeba (4:33)
- Toubaka (5:44)
- Dimbati galant (8:30)
- Dolo magni (8:20)
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MALI
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