Kora player Kadialy Kouyate showcases new album on summer tout

Born into the great line of Kouyate Griot in Southern Senegal, Kadialy Kouyate’s kora playing and singing style, both as a soloist and in different ensembles, have been appreciated in many prestigious venues including the Royal Festival Hall, the 02 Arena, the National Theatre, the Royal Albert Hall and Clarence House.

Bringing his successful piece of West African afro-pop with a message, he has also played venues and festivals across the world, touring to Europe, Australia and North America. Since his arrival in the UK, Kadialy has played a significant part in enriching the London musical scene with his griot legacy.

He has taught the kora at SOAS, University of London, for the last decade and he has also been involved in countless musical projects both as a collaborator and a session musician. He has toured with the RSC’s production of Julius Caesar, other theatre projects including working at the London Globe Theatre on a show called ‘We the People’ as well as touring three children theatre projects with the renowned Oily Cart. In 2015 he took part in the remaking of the TV series Roots as a musician, cultural consultant and dialect coach.

Kora virtuoso/singer Kadialy has released several albums – also with collaborations include Rafiki Jazz and Adriano Adewale Group - and makes regular radio and television appearances.

He plays the following live dates this summer: