Artist Profile
SOLO KEITASolo Keita is a djembe player from Sambalara village in the Hamana region of Guinea, West Africa.
Recognized for his exceptional talent from an early age, he grew up performing at a wide range of traditional Malinke ceremonies, festivals, and gatherings.
His talent was discovered by his uncle, the renowned Guinean djembe master Famoudou Konaté, who welcomed him into the ensemble HAMANA FOLIKAN, through which Solo toured internationally.
During his first visit to Japan in 2004, he moved and inspired many with his performances.
Since then, he has made Japan his base of activity, engaging in a wide variety of efforts including workshops, live performances, and visual art exhibitions across the country.
In 2006, Solo also began reforestation efforts to plant trees used in djembe making.
In 2009, he achieved his long-held dream of planting trees in his home village of Sambalara, where he continues to nurture them with local children and villagers, while also dedicating himself to the sustainable development and preservation of traditional music and culture.
With his gentle spirit and deep love for djembe music, Solo Keita is widely respected as a true custodian of traditional West African music.
Genre: World