February 23, 2025 | 7 PM
Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium, Aga Khan Museum, Toronto
On February 23, 2025, the Aga Khan Museum invites you to an enchanting evening of Songhoy music, led by the renowned Malian guitarist and singer Samba Touré. Held in the intimate Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium, this performance promises to transport audiences to the heart of Mali’s musical traditions, weaving a rich tapestry of sound that speaks to the resilience and beauty of West African culture.
Samba Touré, a celebrated ambassador of Songhoy music, blends the soulful melodies and rhythms of Mali with modern influences, creating a genre-defying style that resonates with global audiences. His music is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Songhoy people, reflecting their history, spirituality, and daily life.
Touré’s compositions evoke a sense of timelessness, drawing from the desert blues popularized by the late Ali Farka Touré, a legend and mentor to Samba. Expect hypnotic guitar riffs, heartfelt lyrics, and rhythmic grooves that showcase the profound connection between music and storytelling in Malian culture.
This concert offers a rare opportunity to experience the vibrant heritage of Mali while exploring its contemporary evolution. Whether you are a fan of world music or new to the sounds of West Africa, this performance will leave a lasting impression.
About Samba Touré
Samba Touré is a critically acclaimed musician hailing from Diré, Mali, a town near the historic city of Timbuktu. Born in 1968, he grew up immersed in the rich musical traditions of the Songhoy people. Inspired by the legendary Ali Farka Touré (no relation), Samba began his musical journey as a self-taught guitarist.
In the 1990s, Samba joined Ali Farka Touré’s band, honing his craft and learning to merge the ancient melodies of Mali with modern musical sensibilities. After Ali’s passing, Samba became a torchbearer for desert blues, infusing it with his unique voice and perspective.
Touré’s solo career has flourished internationally, with critically acclaimed albums like Albala (2013) and Gandadiko (2015), earning him fans across the globe. His music reflects the struggles and triumphs of Mali, addressing themes of displacement, unity, and hope in the face of adversity. Touré’s ability to combine traditional instrumentation with contemporary arrangements makes his work both timeless and innovative.
A Night to Remember
The Songhoy Music of Mali with Samba Touré is more than just a concert—it’s an invitation to experience the soul of a people and their music. Touré’s heartfelt performance will connect audiences to the deep cultural and emotional roots of Mali, highlighting the power of music to unite and inspire.
For tickets and more details, visit agakhanmuseum.org/whats-on/samba-toure. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of Songhoy music with one of Mali’s most celebrated artists.
