Aliou Kouyaté was born in 1966 in Sejo, Casamance, Senegal. We were struck by the subtlety of his playing as he underpinned the music of Sulay with sensitivity and modesty. As an artist he possessed versatility and this was clear from his ability to immerse himself into the music and culture of another artist. Although this was the first time they had worked together there was already a musical chemistry and bond between them.

Aliou is a member of UCAS (United Cultural Artists of Sejo), which was founded by his father Momodu Kouyaté in 1958 with the mission to unite artists, writers, activists under one banner. UCAS is currently led by Aliou and continuing to tour extensively across the region. Aliou has worked with many leading Senegalese artists including Yossou N’Dour, Pap Faal and the Baduo Band. He now resides in Banjul and divides his time travelling between The Gambia and Casamance.

Aliou Kouyaté

(Guitar)

VIDEO:

Tagu Nala performed by Sulay Sowe & Aliou Kouyaté

Recorded 07/02/2014

Bakau, The Gambia

Hi-Res        Lo-Res

ARTISTS WORKED WITH:

Yossou N’Dour

UCAS (United Cultural Artists of Sejo)

Pap Faal