Jaliba Kuyateh

Jaliba Kuyateh is a Gambian musician. He is well known internationally as the "King of Kora." His music mixes traditional kora beats with modern pop music and is often referred to as "kora pop. " Kuyateh is a former school teacher, a resident of Brikama, and performs extensively abroad.

Life The name 'Jaliba' means great praise singer or griot in his native Mandinka language. His father, Kebba Sankung Kuyateh, also a renowned Kora player, gave him the name in anticipation of his future greatness. Jaliba was born and raised in Niamina Dankunku to musician parents approximately 61 years ago. He was officially born on April 13, 1957, though there is some controversy as to the exact date he was born as births in his village were not recorded at the time.

His paternal grandfather, Wandifeng Jali, was also a famous Kora player of his time. Despite coming from a long line of musicians, getting a formal education took center stage in young Jaliba's life. He started his education at Niamina Dankunku Primary School and later transferred to Pakalinding Primary School. He finished his secondary education at Crab Island Secondary School. The band gained even more success the following year, releasing two more albums Dajika and Tissoli. Jaliba's music career spans almost 30 years with his music gaining even more popularity around the world. The band's concerts in the US and Europe are highly anticipated events with huge turnouts.

Accomplishments and awards Jaliba has received numerous awards and recognition for his music and philanthropic work. He remains the only Gambian appointed a UNICEF Goodwill ambassador for his charitable work with children in the Gambia. On February 17, 2008, Jaliba received the Brufut Marathon Run Association Certificate. In June 2012 he was awarded a Testimonial Resolution from The Detroit City Council for his civil and musical contributions. In December 2014 Jaliba was appointed as a Goodwill KORA Ambassador for the KORA AWARDS campaign to fight Ebola. In 2023, Jaliba was given an honorary fellowship at Goldsmiths university of London.

Discography

Albums