Ibrahima Cissokho & Mandingue Foly

The charismatic and exceptional Senegalese artist, Ibrahima Cissokho is from the purest Manding culture. He has been nourished by the sounds of Mbalax but he has an open mind to every new tunes if they are of quality. He is passionate about blues, jazz, salsa, classic and soul music and not afraid to combine their energetic melodies with his own creations. He pays homage to his ancestors and sings about subjects which are close to his heart: education, unemployment, solidarity and love; mostly in Manding, Wolof or English language.

He was born in Senegal, in a griot family originated from Casamance. He grew up surrounded by his father's kora melodies and he decided to follow the traditions of his family and to become an expert of his instrument early. Later he joined to a music theatre troupe and carried on several European tours. After he returned to Senegal he formed his own band mostly from his family members. In 2008 he decided to get together with professional musicians in France and start a new music project, called the Mandingue Foly.

‘Beyond there is the immensity of Africa, here we greet the infinity of the soul! Don't miss it!’ (B. Martignol)