| Performance Notes | Sona Jobarteh is the first female West African Kora virtuoso and new singing sensation to hit the stage in the United Kingdom. Also cousin to the celebrated Kora maestro Toumani Diabaté, Sona comes from a prestigious West African Griot family, breaking away from this male-dominated hereditary tradition which dates back hundreds of years.
Coming from Gambian origins, her music is not only rooted in her traditional West African Manding inheritance, but also embraces other vibrant and uplifting musical traditions such as the Wassoulou and Fula. It is a captivating balance between the modern and traditional aspects of West African music.
Sona Jobarteh is a young rising talent, having collaborated with great musicians such as Toumani Diabaté, Damon Albarn, Oumou Sangaré, as well as performing support acts for artists such as Habib Koité and Cassandra Wilson. Joined by her quartet, Sona brings an innovative, engaging and energising show to the stage. Audiences are captivated by her warm silky voice, strong West African rhythms and infectious melodies. |