“Senegalese kora virtuoso/singer Kadialy Kouyaté showcases his fleet-fingered skills on this mesmerizing instrument, complementing it with his hauntingly, darkly beautiful voice.” –Time Out London

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. Kadialy 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. Kadialy 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 toured with the RSC’s production of Julius Caesar and other theatre projects include 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. Kadialy has released several albums, and makes regular radio and television appearances.

With his Sound Archive, Kadialy Kouyate draws on his heritage and its traditional songs to create his own mesmerising compositions, leading his fantastic band into the West African groove.

His latest album Nemo meaning Blessings in Mandinka was released in April 2020 and has won rave reviews from the press. Nemo was recently selected Top of The World in the July 2020  issue of the Songline Magazine. 

“Kadialy’s strong deep voice that impresses…on the Youssou N’dour-esque opener ‘Ye Nale’…” Jane Cornwell – Songline Magazine

“It’s great to hear Kadialy Kouyate firmly back in his own Mandinka territory. This album Na Kitabo (My Book) by the kora player and singer is rooted in his own Senégalese tradition and has all the hallmarks of a classic in the making. The themes of the songs counteract humanity’s current obsession with negativity in the world and focus instead on happiness.”Rhythmpassport

“….ADMIRABLE SKILL AND PRECISION.” – SONGLINES #125 –

“SUCCESSFUL PIECE OF WEST AFRICAN AFRO-POP WITH A MESSAGE.” – TROPICALIDAD.BE –