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Quick Facts
Born
1975
1975
From
Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau
Journey
Kimi Djabaté, hailing from Guinea-Bissau, was born on January 20, 1975, into a lineage steeped in musical tradition. From a young age in the culturally vibrant town of Tabato, Djabaté was exposed to the sounds of the balafon and other traditional instruments, setting a strong foundation for his musical journey. His artistry seamlessly integrates the intricate tapestries of West African music, including genres like kora, gnawa, mbalax, morna, and tishoumaren, which are reflective of his Afro-Portuguese heritage. Djabaté's journey from local artistic gatherings to leading roles in the national music and dance ensemble underscored his early talent, culminating in an international tour in 1994 that brought his music to global stages. The 2005 release of his debut solo album 'Terike' marked a pivotal point in his career, launching a path of artistic pursuit enriched by collaborations with various musicians. Djabaté's work not only celebrates his cultural roots but also explores new dimensions, capturing the essence of contemporary global sounds while maintaining the authenticity of his origins. His contributions to the music world continue to inspire and invigorate, offering a profound testament to the enduring vibrancy of African music.
