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Ear Trumpet Presents: Rokia Koné, Standing show (with some unreserved seats) at Strange Brew, 10-12 Fairfax St, BS1 3DB - Ages 14+ (Under 18's to be accompanied by a responsible adult)One of Mali’s most beloved and dynamic artists, Rokia Koné is a force to be reckoned with. She has a voice that soars — pure, clear, and true — above infectious Mande guitar grooves and traditional percussion. Her captivating performances run the gamut of emotion: from joy to despair, fury to tenderness, wielding that astounding voice with grace and power. Born and raised in Ségou, the cradle of the ancient Bamana kingdom, Rokia draws on a rich tradition of griot storytelling and has a deep connection with her Malian ancestry. Her unique abilities in melodic improvisation, honed over years of late-night residencies in the legendary music clubs of Bamako, have earned her a place as one of West Africa’s most exciting vocalists. In 2017, she joined the all-female music collective Les Amazones d’Afrique, who use music as a vehicle to campaign for gender equality in Africa.
Following the release of her widely-lauded debut album BAMANAN — in collaboration with rock producer Jacknife Lee (U2, R.E.M., Taylor Swift) — which brought her two All Africa Music Award nominations and a New York Times Critic’s Pick, Rokia is now putting her gritty, soaring, griot-infused vocals to Malian guitar and a West African percussive pulse. It’s the sound of an emerging legend replenishing her roots.
“Malian star’s ragged diva-ish charm is unstoppable”
★★★★ The Guardian (live review)
“Rokia Koné sings for the world”
The New York Times Critic’s Pick
“Sure to go down as a classic”
★★★★ Songlines
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Strange Brew, 10-12 Fairfax Street,Bristol, United Kingdom