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IMPORTANT NOTE:
ArtPower regrets to inform you that Bassekou Kouyate and his musicians have not received their visas to come to the U.S for their February 26 concert at ArtPower. We are pleased to have Habib Koité and his percussionist able to share their duo performance as originally scheduled. Habib is a fabulous solo performer that we’re certain you will enjoy. Thank you for your understanding and our apologies for the difficulties.
If you have decided not to attend the concert due to programming change, we would be happy to process a refund. Please contact the UC San Diego Box Office directly regarding your tickets at 858-534-TIXS (8497). They are open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm.
One of Africa’s most recognized musicians, Mali’s pop icon Habib Koité has a deep and varied musical vocabulary, blending Afro-pop with jazz, rock, and even classical. His intimate vocal delivery blends beautifully with both the modern and ancient musical traditions from which he derives his inspiration. Koité is joined by Bassekou Kouyate, Malian musician and master of the ngoni, a traditional African lute. Time Out says, “Ngoni virtuoso Bassekou Kouyate can make notes bend like light rays in the desert heat.”
Together, Koité and Kouyate exemplify the shared experience associated with the historical, cultural, and unifying properties of Malian music. Kouyate’s comfort in a vast array of musical settings actively complements Koité’s presence, resulting in a spirited collaboration that brings innovation and a sense of unity.
