Kadialy Kouyate

Kadialy Kouyate performs original music inspired by the West African griot repertoire. Born into
the great line of Kouyate griots in Southern Senegal, Kadialy’s mesmerising kora playing and
singing style have been welcomed in many prestigious venues as both a soloist and in different
ensembles: Royal Festival Hall, O2 Arena, Union Chapel and WOMAD amongst others.

Kadialy first made a name for himself in the UK with both his solo performances and his success
with steel pan player Fimber Bravo. Their acclaimed album ‘Small Talk’ resulted in numerous
radio appearances (Radio 3’s ‘World Routes’ and Charlie Gillett’s ‘World of Music’) and a 2005
UK tour. Extensive European tours also followed with the renowned Baye Fall gnawa musician
Nuru Kane and an exciting new project for 2011 with Baaba Maal.

In November 2008, Kadialy represented the kora for the first time at the "2do Festival Mundial Del
Arpa" in Paraguay. He is featured on the West One Music album Champions of Africa – specially
commissioned for the 2010 World Cup. Kadialy’s critically acclaimed debut album Londo -
selected for the fRoots November 2010 compilation CD – blends the kora with cello, double bass
and percussion.

It is with great pleasure that we present to you Kadialy’s new ensemble, which combines
musicians from Cheikh Lo’s band (Badou N’Diaye) and Bhundu Boys (Kudaushe Matimba).
Following on from their successful Friday Tonic show at the Southbank Centre, gigs with the
London-based Paw Paw Jam sessions and upcoming performances at the Rhythms of the World
Festival 2011 and the London African Music Festival, their exciting new album Teriya will be
released soon.