Sambou Suso was born in the early 70s in Banjul, The Gambia. She carries in her voice the memories of her ancestors, and this pours out of her in every utterance. Singing is not just an art form for Sambou, it is a medium for communication at the highest level. Her voice embodies the essence of the Jaliya vocal tradition but she brings unique musical refrains and phraseology to the genre.

From her earliest years music and singing was a part of her life and being brought up in a Jali family she was surrounded by singers and musicians. Though she did not learn directly through listening and being immersed in the culture, she found her voice as an artist. From an early age Sambou knew she wanted to be a singer and because there was a lack of female singers at the time she pioneered the way for female vocalists in The Gambia. 

Sambou Suso

(Voice)

VIDEO:

Nanalufola performed by Sambou Suso & Wali Cham

Recorded 17/02/2014

Sanementereng, The Gambia

Hi-Res        Lo-Res

INTERVIEW:

Interviewed by Tunde Jegede

17/02/2014

Sanementereng, The Gambia

Hi-Res        Lo-Res

TEACHERS & INSPIRATORS:

Boully Suso

Sarjo Suso

ARTISTS WORKED WITH:

Toumani Diabaté

Oumou Sangaré

Kasse Mady Diabaté

Wali Cham

Muhamed Saho

Ansumana Suso