African musician Mory Kante died May 22, 2020 in Conakry, Guinea at the age of 70. An official cause of death was not given but his son stated that he will be tested for the Covid-19 virus; adding that his father had not been feeling well for some time.
An influential artist in African and world music, Kante introduced Guinean and Mandingo culture to the world. An ambassador of African Pop music, his song “Yeke Yeke”, which sold over a million copies, has been covered and remixed numerous times.
Along with the kora; Kante played the balafon and guitar; and was a singer. More than a musician, Kante was a Goodwill Ambassador to the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization. He also helped to stimulate the Guinean economy.
He was born March 29, 1950 in Albadarya in southeastern region of Guinea to a family of girots. Coming from a musical family, Kante began playing music when he was only seven years old. He became a very accomplished kora player – an African harp.
Kante’s survivors include his son Balla.
Mory Kante’s discography:
“10 Cola Nuts”
“Akwaba Beach”
“Touma”
“N Diarabi”
“Tatebola”
“Un A Paris”
“Les Nuits de Bamako”
“Nongo Village”
“Tamala le Voyageur”
“Sabou”
“Mixtus”
feature photo credit: Mory Kante’s Facebook page