Ablaye Badji

Ablaye Badji is a multi-instrumentalist, a member of the griot family – Cissoko. Ablaye was born and grew up in Ziguinchor, Senegal. Surrounded by the cultural and musical richness of his ancestors, he began his musical education by gaining an in-depth knowledge of traditional instruments such as djembe, sabar and seourouba. His love for the kora, however, was visible to him at an early age.

Traditionally, the playing of kora was passed from father to son. However, Ablaye inherited this talent from his grandfather, Kemo Susso, one of Senegal’s most prominent musicians of his generation.

Ablaye’s love for music was also thanks to his mother – Ma Awa Cissoko – a traditional singer who would take him to concerts before he could even walk. This is why Ablaye’s style of playing is so unique. His virtuosity, talent and amazing voice add to Ablaye’s musical character.