Ali Farka Toure

Biography

1939, Kanau, Gourmararusse, Mali, d. 7 March 2006, Bamako, Mali. After growing up in a Mali village Touré moved with his mother to Nefenque (near Timbuktu) in 1946. Shortly before the 50s he commenced playing guitar (the traditional version, called the monocorde/monochord). Parental pressure argued against his musical inclinations, and he did not return to the instrument until 1957. He subsequently moved to Bamako to take part in a youth festival event, which proved the first step on the ladder to success. As well as spells as a chauffeur and sound engineer, he pursued his music and soon became a recognisable figure on stages throughout Mali. From the late 60s onwards he also took engagements abroad, touring throughout Eastern Europe before arriving in Paris, France, in the 70s. Here he was able to record more freely, and although unhappy with his experiences in the music industry, a clutch of albums recorded during this period brought him international...

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