This spring, a father and son duo will tour the UK together, bringing the legendary Mandinka Griot songbook to audiences across the country. Prepare to be transported to The Gambia, the smiling coast of Africa,on a journey you will never forget.
Legendary Griot and kora master, Mamudou Susso, and his son, the UK-based rising star Suntou Susso will showcase centuries of a musical culture known for its affirming and positive lyrics, not to mention incredible technical skill and other-worldly musicianship.
The kora is a harp lute with 22 strings from The Gambia, and is a rare and enchanting instrument. Griots play an important inherited role as cultural ambassadors, historians and entertainers, builders of peaceful, accepting communities. They carry the identity of their people through song.
Mamudou Susso has toured the world for five decades, including as part of Gambia’s biggest musical export, Ifang Bondi. Suntou is proudly following in his father’s footsteps, representing the most exciting and innovative of the current generation of Griots. Together, father and son will channel the traditions that have been passed down for generations, and present a never-before-seen look at the future of the Mandinka Griot culture.
—
Mamudou Susso
Legendary Mandinka Griot born in The Gambia, Mamudou is deeply experienced in all West African musical styles associated with his instrument, the kora.
From a young age, Mamudou began touring the world as a Griot and musician, most notably as part of Gambia’s most successful band, Ifang Bondi. In 2017, a jury chaired by Miriam Makeba honoured the band with the KORA All Africa Award - also referred to as the African Grammys - for their musical arrangement. It is said that they influenced a generation of West African musicians which includes Youssou N’Dour, Salif Keïta and Mory Kante.
In more recent years, Mamudou represents The Gambia as a cultural ambassador for the Gambian government, showcasing the rich culture of The Gambia overseas. He continues to guide and teach future generations as he has done for decades, and is a well respected elder holding deep knowledge of Griot history and culture including its teachings of peace, love and respect.
Suntou Susso
Suntou is a multi-instrumentalist: kora player, percussionist, singer and composer from The Gambia. Since the release of his self-written debut album, Kanéfonyo (Never Give Up) in 2022, Suntou's career has gained serious momentum, he is an in-demand and charismatic performer. He performs frequently as a solo artist playing traditional Kora, or with his six-piece band heavily rooted in Mandinka musical sounds whilst infused with jazz, funk and soul; or in a folk duo that blends British and Gambian musical traditions, among other impressive collaborations and projects. Suntou’s versatile musical abilities are considered unique for his generation.
