Ballaké Sissoko, a renowned Malian kora player, has earned acclaim for his innovative music and global collaborations. Rising to fame with Toumani Diabaté on the 1999 album New Ancient Strings, Sissoko has since worked with artists like Vincent Ségal, releasing mesmerizing albums such as Musique de Nuit in 2015 and Djourou in 2021. His diverse musical influences shine through in projects like Les Egarés in 2023 and Bamako*Chicago Sound System in 2024, showcasing his versatility across genres like rock, hip-hop, and classical.
Born in 1968 to kora master Djelimady Sissoko, Ballaké Sissoko began his musical journey at a young age, eventually joining the Ensemble Instrumental National du Mali at just 13. Collaborating with a range of musicians, including Ludovico Einaudi and Rokia Traoré, Sissoko's adventurous spirit led him to form the group 3MA and establish ongoing partnerships with Vincent Ségal. Known for his virtuosity and playful approach, Sissoko continues to push musical boundaries with each new project, capturing audiences with his unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds.
