Adama Jali Mbye is a Kora player from The Gambia West Africa, based in the South of France. Also known as Kora Jali, he is an inspiring musician who has inherited his ancestral gift of bringing the beautiful instrument to life. The Kora is a 21-string traditional instrument, that radiates a warm feeling of peace.
The majority of West African Kora players originate from Griot families and are musicians, singers & poets, the meaning of griot is “musical oral storyteller.” Griot kora players are taught by their families, normally from father to son, the tradition goes back hundreds of generations. Oral historians would transfer history & important information by way of music, through various instruments, singers & poets. Playing in front of Royal ceremonies, and community meetings, they used their skills to bring the community together.
Born into a Griot family on his father & mother’s side, as a seven-year-old, he would tinker with the strings of the alluring instrument. By the age of ten, Adama’s Father became aware of his son’s interest and set out to teach him a few traditional songs. Various family members also shared their Kora knowledge. Over time, as his skills developed, young Jali played at various celebrations such as Tabaski, (a Muslim celebration.) Visiting homes, in the early morning, he shared his musical gift with the local community, and in return would receive small gifts for the blessing.
As he reached adulthood, the art of playing kora with his unique style continued to flourish. He has played at various ceremonies & events in The Gambia. In 2021, at Gambia’s Kora Award Festival, Adama was presented with a Kora Award.
After relocating to France, his talent has paired him on various projects working with various artists. His aim is to one day record his album.
Adama Jali Mbye, (Kora Jali) is one of Gambia’s global musician storytellers.
Havana White ©
The Gambia is referred to as the “Smiling Coast of Africa,” and is the smallest country in mainland Africa. Home to a population of around two and a half million people, the country is surrounded by Senegal.
Many people between Senegal & Gambia are of inter-connected families. Mandigo, Wolof and English are the main languages, and like Senegal, it is rich in culture & tradition.
The Gambia has become a popular tourist destination for many Europeans with beautiful coastal regions, friendly people, and good food.
Reggae Music has a big influence on the younger generation and many Jamaican popular artists perform in the country.
Rich in traditional music and home to an abundance of Kora players such as Foday Musa Suso, Jaliba Kuyateh “King of Kora”, and Dembo Konte, to name a few. The modern-day Gambian kora artists, continue to flourish their musical heritage.
Havana White ©