Habib Koité

Habib Koité is one of the great stars of world music. With charisma and skill, he brings the rich musical culture of Mali to a wide audience. His guitar style, inspired by the Ngoni lute, blends delicate playing with rhythmic drums, shaping his distinctive sound. His songs tell stories of Malian life, history, and society - deeply rooted yet open to the world. Since 1994, he has played over 1,700 concerts, bridging tradition and modernity in a remarkable way.

Starting in 2024, the Malian artist has launched an exciting new project: Mandé Sila – an acoustic quartet that celebrates the rich diversity of West African musical traditions. He’s joined by three amazing musicians: the "magic balafon" master Aly Keïta (Ivory Coast), kora player Lamine Cissokho (Senegal), who comes from a renowned griot family, and his longtime percussionist Mama Koné (Mali). Together, they honor the Mandé Sila, the musical legacy of the Manding Empire, reflecting the languages, cultures, and musical richness of West Africa.

Mandé Sila is more than just a music project – it’s a cultural exchange, with the artists blending their styles and bringing something special to the stage. The setlist features original compositions, brought to life with traditional instruments and a mix of West African rhythms, jazz, and even some Oriental influences. On stage, the chemistry between the four musicians is electric, captivating audiences with their virtuosity and shared inspiration. 

After a successful U.S. tour in November 2024, the Mandé Sila quartet is now bringing their music to Europe. 2025 saw the quartet release the album Mandé Sila Live @ Levon Helm Studios and play many shows across Europe that stood out through a one-of-a-kind acoustic experience.