The world music guest of the 2009 Veszprem Summer Festival will be Salif Keita, one of the founders of afro-pop genre. The internationally renowned singer and song-writer was born in Djoliba (Mali) in 1949. The peculiar musician who is often referred to as “The Golden Voice of Africa” is a direct descendant of Sundiata Keita, founder of the Manding Empire.
Despite his noble heritage, he chose to be a musician turning his back to the strict laws of the cast system, as a result of which his family cast him out. His fate has been all the more difficult as he was born an albino which also meant to be a fugitive as it might have caused bad luck. That is why he left for Bamako and joined Super Rail Band in 1967 and later Les Ambassadeurs in 1973.
Due to the political situation in Mali, Keita left Mali for Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire with the latter group and changed their name to Les Ambassadeurs Internationales. By the mid-70’s they became the focus of international interest and in 1977 Keita was awarded the National Order for his musical activities by the president of Guinea.
Despite his local successes, Keita moved to Paris in the 1980’s in order to reach larger audiences. His first afro-pop albums, which scored great success, were released here. His music combines European, American and West African melodies most often with such symbolic traditional instruments as kamele n’goni, n’goni, tama, kora and calabash.
Keita is mostly recognized by his massive performances and passionate songs. During his career of 35 years he has become one of the most significant performers of world music and recorded with such famous artists as Carlos Santana, Joe Zawinul or Wayne Shorter. The meaning of the title of his 2005 album M’Bemba is grandfather. He celebrates his return to his roots and African culture with his music of unique sound which now the Veszprem audience can also enjoy.
Source:AHU – David A-O