SambaToure_2024_SiriGranheim_0841-scaled-aspect-ratio-1600-1000

Songhoy Music of Mali

Samba Touré

Sunday, February 23, 2025

7 pm

Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium

Book Now

Price: $60 Regular | $54 Friends | $45 Students and Seniors

Page Navigation

Experience the soul-stirring rhythms of Samba Touré as he brings the heart of West African blues to life in his debut Canadian performance.

Samba Touré, the keeper of African blues, and his band bring his soulful sound to Canada for the first time. A master musician, Touré preserves the rich legacy of West African blues through original compositions and interpretations of centuries-old songs. Joining him on stage are Soulemane Kane on the calabash and Djieme Sissoko on the talking drum (Tama), electric ngoni, and more. Together, they offer an unforgettable evening of Songhoy and traditional Malian music — deeply moving and irresistibly rhythmic.

About the Artist

Samba Touré

Learn about Samba Touré

Samba Touré

Samba Touré’s music is defined by hypnotic guitar grooves and the intense spirit of the Sahel. Renowned as a Malian guitar legend, he carries forward the legacy of Ali Farka Touré, who mentored him in the 1990s and inspired his shift to traditional Songhoy music. Samba’s debut album, Fondo (The Way), achieved acclaim with the hit single “Anbafo,” celebrating Malian women.

Having toured extensively across Europe, Samba has performed at Roskilde Festival, Viljandi Folk Festival, and more. His newest album, Baarakelaw (The Workers), released in autumn 2024 with Glitterbeat, blends blues-rock, psychedelia, and ballads. The album honours Mali’s overlooked workers and includes a poignant tribute to his late wife. Rooted in Malian life yet universally resonant, Baarakelaw reflects dignity, compassion, and humanity.