The Malian maestro, Toumani Diabaté, stands as one of Africa’s most celebrated and prolific musicians. Hailing from a lineage of griots—a revered class of storytellers, musicians, and poets in West Africa—Diabate’s heritage stretches back an astonishing 71 generations. His father, the legendary Sidiki Diabate, was crowned the King of Kora. Despite this rich musical backdrop, Toumani was a self-taught prodigy, beginning his journey with the kora at the tender age of five.

The Malian maestro, Toumani Diabaté, stands as one of Africa's most celebrated and prolific musicians. Hailing from a lineage of griots—a revered class of storytellers, musicians, and poets in West Africa—Diabate’s heritage stretches back an astonishing 71 generations.

The KORA, an emblem of West African music, is a mesmerizing instrument with its 21 strings attached to a long cylinder and connected to a half-gourd covered with animal skin. Traditionally, only specific griot families were permitted to play the kora, using it primarily to support vocalists. However, Toumani Diabate revolutionized this tradition by broadening the kora’s musical range, blending its ancient tones with fresh, innovative styles while honoring its deep-rooted heritage.

Young Toumani Diabaté On The Kora

Not only is Toumani Diabate celebrated as one of the greatest kora players, but he also played a pivotal role in introducing this enchanting instrument to the global stage. With over a dozen albums and numerous collaborations, he brought the traditional sounds of West Africa to the forefront of world music. His collaborations include works with Ali Farka Touré, American blues guitarist Taj Mahal, flamenco musicians, U.S. jazz trombonist Roswell Rudd, Brazilian poet Arnaldo Antunes, and banjo virtuoso Béla Fleck.

Mr. Diabaté performs at a government dinner at the Azalai Grand Hotel in Bamako, Mali, on Dec. 9, 2006.
Mr. Diabaté performs at a government dinner at the Azalai Grand Hotel in Bamako, Mali, on Dec. 9, 2006. © Rebecca Blackwell/AP

Toumani’s journey began in earnest when he traveled abroad in 1987 to perform at a festival in London organized by scholar and musician Lucy Durán. His father had already gained recognition through the Mali government’s release of “Prémiere Anthologie de la Musique Malienne” in 1971, which featured renowned professional musicians, including Sidiki Diabate.

Toumani’s approach was unique in that he chose not to sing but to focus on the kora’s potential for improvisation. His style of flowing improvisation and his curiosity for collaboration led to the production of 14 commercial releases, starting with his solo album “Kaira” in 1988. His last album, “The Sky is the Same Colour Everywhere,” a 2023 collaboration with Iranian musician Kayhan Kalhor, continued to demonstrate his innovative spirit

Toumani’s achievements were celebrated worldwide, earning him two Grammy Awards and recognition as a UN goodwill ambassador for his efforts to draw attention to the HIV/AIDS crisis through his music. He also received an honorary doctorate, highlighting his impact on the global music scene.

Although Toumani Diabate passed away last week, just short of his 59th birthday, his towering legacy endures. He leaves behind a rich legacy that not only honors the traditions of the griots but also pushes the boundaries of kora music, making it known to audiences worldwide. His work has ensured that the sounds of the kora and the stories of the Mande people continue to resonate globally.