Artist description Lansana Kouyate's sound is the heart of Africa itself. He performstraditional rhythms on djembe and balifone, along with hot electric guitar in his originals. Playing over Joliba’s tight afro-reggae groves, Lansana’s effortlessimprovisations recall the ancient melodies of his homeland.

Music Style Afropop, reggae, dance, jazz, tribal drumming

Musical Influences Sprits of Africa, Traditions of the Malinke tribe

Similar Artists King Sunny Ade, Youssou N'Dour

Artist History Lansana Kouyate’s magical performances have spanned the globe, beginning in Guinea,West Africa where the Kouyate family has served traditionally as griots, storytellersresponsible for carrying on the traditions of their Malinke tribe through music. TheKouyate clan has served the descendants of the Great Emperor Soundiata of the ancientempire of Mali for thousands of years. He formed his band Joliba after drumming on Peter Gabriel's Womad Tour and re;ocating to Rochester,NY. Since then Joliba has played shows with The Wailers, Burning Spear, The Meditaions, BigMountain, The Beach Boys, G. Love, and Bernie Worrel of Parliament. They haveplayed at the Grape Street Jam, the Starwood Festival, and Woodstock 1999.

Group Members Lansan KouyateDylan SavageIan NeilsonDave TickellMike TonerSteve Imburgia

Instruments Drums, Percussion, Guitar, Bass, Keyboards, djembe, Balifone

Albums Joliba featuring Lansana Koyate of Guinea

Additional Info Contact us through e-mail for booking info or to buy the CD

Location Rochester, NY - USA

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