Ballaké Sissoko

Ballaké Sissoko born in Bamako, Mali is a globally celebrated master of the kora, a 21-string traditional West African harp. Born into a hereditary lineage of Mandé griots or jeli, he has revolutionized kora music by seamlessly weaving ancient traditional roots with contemporary global sounds and cross-cultural collaborations. 

He is the son of Djelimady Sissoko, a renowned Gambian kora player who relocated to Mali and joined the national orchestra. Sissoko began studying the instrument as a young child. Following his father’s passing in 1981, he took over his father’s seat in the prestigious Ensemble Instrumental National du Mali at the age of 13. 

In the late 1980s, alongside fellow kora master Toumani Diabaté, Sissoko introduced western guitar chord progressions to his father's traditional repertoire, redefining the boundaries of the instrument. 

Sissoko is renowned for his adventurous spirit, frequently partnering with musicians across diverse genres and cultures

His landmark duo album with Toumani Diabaté, serving as a tribute to their fathers, established him as an international star. An acclaimed acoustic trio blending Mali, Madagascar, and Morocco featuring Sissoko (kora), Rajery (valiha), and Driss El Maloumi (oud). 

He formed a highly praised duo with French cellist Vincent Segal, releasing critically lauded albums like Chamber Music (2009) and Musique de Nuit (2015). 

His discography spans projects with Italian classical pianist Ludovico Einaudi (Diario Mali), American blues legend Taj Mahal, and South African classical guitarist Derek Gripper. 

He was named a laureate for Distinguished and Enduring Contributions to Music at the Aga Khan Music Awards. Known for his profound, improvisational, and deeply melodic approach, he continues to tour globally as a foremost ambassador of the kora.