Djeli Moussa Diawara

Biography

Djeli Moussa Diawara is a Guinean singer, composer, and virtuoso of the kora, born into a family of griots. He is celebrated for his innovative expansion of the traditional 21-string kora to a unique 32-string instrument, allowing for greater melodic range. His music distinctively fuses Mandingo traditions with global styles like jazz, blues, and flamenco. His 1983 debut album, 'Yasimika', is considered a landmark in African music. Diawara was a founding member of the acclaimed Kora Jazz Trio and has collaborated with a diverse range of international artists, including *Bob Brozman*, *Manu Dibango*, and *Ali Farka Touré*. His work, such as the album 'Flamenkora', showcases his ability to bridge cultural and musical worlds, making him a significant figure in contemporary world music.