Welcome Cheick Hamala Diabate
We couldn't be happier to announce our association with the Mali Griot, Cheick Hamala Diabate. Born in Kita, Mali, into the family Diabate with a Jeli (Griot) tradition dating back over 800 years, Cheick Hamala Diabate is recognized as one of the most famous n'goni Jelis in both the Malian and international communities. Playing guitar, banjo and the traditional n'goni, Cheick (pronounced "shake") came to America in 1995, and settled in Washington DC.
Washington may be chock-a-block with lobbyists and consultants, but only one of them rocks the n’goni, the West African plucked lute covered with animal skin. He advises presidents and the World Bank. He’s played for everyone from a struggling couple trying to save their marriage, to the U.S. Congress. He’s hobnobbed with American string and Blues legends—from Bela Fleck to Corey Harris—and along the way reunited his beloved instrument with its long-lost grandchild, America’s banjo, even earning a Grammy nomination in 2007 for a duet recording with Bob Carlin.
“The music we griots play is not just about making nice sounds for dancing, it’s about giving a lesson to people about their lives. You tell them about what their grandfathers did, and what they should do now,” explains Diabate, whose griot roots run deep as first cousin to kora master Toumani Diabate, and nephew to legendary Super Rail Band guitarist, Djelimady Tounkara. “People trust the griot more than anyone else.”
Cheick and his band have performed at festivals, performing arts centers and music venues all over the world. They also do workshops and master classes about the Griot tradition, and African Music. Thier infectious afropop and traditional songs are sure to get you on your feet and dancing.
