Salif Keita

Salif Keita was born in 1949 in Djoliba, Mali, into a royal family. He faced discrimination due to his albinism, which he later addressed through his music and advocacy. In the 1960s, he started performing with the Rail Band of Bamako, a group that mixed traditional African rhythms with Western sounds.

His solo career took off with the 1977 album "Mandjou." Songs like "Madan" and "Yamore" show his approach, which often pairs acoustic guitars with traditional percussion and his distinctive vocals. He kept recording through the 1980s and 1990s, with albums such as "Soro" in 1987 and "Moffou" in 1996.

Keita's work has touched on social themes while drawing from Malian musical traditions. Tracks like "Dary" and "Tomorrow" reflect this blend. He has performed with musicians including kora player Famoro Diabate and guitarist Cheick Tidiane Seck.