Baker's Dozen

Artists discuss the 13 records that shaped their lives

14. Kasse Mady DiabatéKela Tradition

He was one of the great voices of Africa and his death [last year] was a great loss for Mali. But he did a lot for Mali, in the domain of the jelis [the griots] he’s a monument for us. It’s rare to hear a voice like that. He didn’t have the same recognition abroad as Salif but in Mali he’s super important. On this album he talks about [the village of] Kéla, his origins and the real jeliya [the griot’s art]. But his daughter [Hawa Kassé Mady] is there and she’s trying to continue his legacy, so it’s not entirely lost. We won’t forget him anyway. 

Previous

The Quietus Digest

Sign up for our free Friday email newsletter.

Support The Quietus

Our journalism is funded by our readers. Become a subscriber today to help champion our writing, plus enjoy bonus essays, podcasts, playlists and music downloads.

Support & Subscribe Today