Papa Diabaté, whose real name is Djély Sory Diabaté, is a renowned Guinean musician born in Tokounou, near Kankan, into a traditional griot family. Nicknamed "the mannequin griot" following his performances at international fashion shows, he gained recognition by winning a gold record at the "Kankan Bloose" festival before embarking on an impressive international career.
A kora virtuoso, he has participated in over 50 major festivals worldwide, notably becoming the first Guinean to play this instrument in Hong Kong. With nine albums to his name, including "KANTÔ DJOUDJOU" released in 2021, he carries on the musical legacy of his mentor, Mory Kanté, while embodying the profound philosophy of the griot as a "bag of words," blending ancestral tradition with international influence.
Introduction
Papa Diabaté, whose real name is Djély Sory Diabaté, is an iconic figure of traditional Guinean music who has carried the griot heritage beyond African borders. Born in Tokounou, more than 50 kilometers from Kankan, he comes from a distinguished lineage of griots, the guardians of oral tradition in West Africa.
Beginnings in Guinea
Passionate about the kora from a young age, Papa Diabaté followed in the footsteps of his ancestors by fully embracing the vocation of a griot. His career truly took off at the prestigious "Kankan Bloose" festival, where his exceptional talent earned him his first gold record. This early recognition marked the beginning of an extraordinary musical journey that has taken him around the world.
International Career
Following this initial success, Papa Diabaté embarked on a massive international tour, performing in Europe, the United States, and Asia. He gained particular recognition by performing alongside some of the world's most renowned models, earning him the nickname "Griot Mannequin." This moniker, which set him apart from other kora players, became his artistic signature.
Throughout his career, the Guinean artist has participated in over 50 major international festivals, earning numerous prestigious awards. Among these accolades is the Étien Indien Prize at the Montpellier Festival. His music has also taken him to Australia, Japan, and China, where he made history as the first Guinean to play the kora in Hong Kong and Beijing.
Musical Legacy
With nine albums to his name, Papa Diabaté has successfully established a unique style, blending tradition with modernity. His rich and diverse repertoire reflects his mastery of the griot art and his talent as a composer. In January 2021, after years of international success, he returned home to present his Guinean audience with his new album titled "KANTÔ DJOUDJOU", which was celebrated with a concert at the 224 Lounge in Lambadji, Conakry.
Influence of Mory Kanté
Papa Diabaté acknowledges the significant influence of Mory Kanté, a legend of Guinean music who passed away in May 2020, on his career. He considers him his mentor and credits him for his kora training. "Everything I have achieved in my life is thanks to Mory Kanté," he declared during Mory Kanté's funeral. The two artists toured together extensively, forging a deep professional and personal relationship.
The Griot Philosophy
Papa Diabaté embodies the essence of the griot in its noblest form. As he himself states, "A griot is different from a singer; a griot is a bag of words, and one can only be oneself." This philosophy guides his artistic approach and explains his ability to touch the hearts of his audience, both in Guinea and internationally.
Today, Papa Diabaté continues to proudly represent Guinea and preserve the musical heritage of his ancestors, proving that "the silence of a griot in his country does not signify his death, but a reconquest that goes beyond imagination."
