Gambian kora singer Suntou Susso shares new album

The 10-track album, launched independently and internationally on 7 November, explores themes of identity, heritage and cultural preservation. Recorded between Senegal and the United Kingdom, the project features 24 musicians from 10 countries, including Malian guitarist Vieux Farka Touré, Ghanaian artist K.O.G., and Susso’s sister, vocalist Binta Suso.

Rooted in the centuries-old Mandinka griot tradition, Jaliya Silokang – The Path of a Griot presents original compositions that combine Afro-Manding rhythms with elements of folk, jazz and funk. Sung primarily in Mandinka, the album’s lyrics address issues of cultural continuity, social responsibility and environmental awareness.

The first single, ‘Yirolu Bala’ (Within the Trees), highlights the importance of environmental protection. The song draws inspiration from Green-Up Gambia, an organisation focused on climate education and reforestation initiatives. Its title is taken from a Mandinka proverb meaning “The Earth’s wellbeing is within the trees.”

Susso, who comes from a long line of griot musicians that includes Seckou Keita, Solo Cissokho and Mamudou Susso, said the album reflects both his heritage and his hopes for the future. “With this album I wanted to communicate to the young generation the importance of our culture and the environment, and to recognise the griot’s role during these crises,” he said.

A griot or jali is a West African storyteller, historian and musician whose role is to preserve and transmit cultural knowledge through music and oral tradition. The kora, a 22-stringed harp-lute played by Susso, is central to this tradition and has been passed down through generations of his family.

Jaliya Silokang received support from Arts Council England and Help Musicians through public funding from the National Lottery.