Moussa Koita has launched his latest single “Ouaga-Bobo“. This song serves as a precursor to his forthcoming album Ayé, slated for release towards the end of 2023. Notably, the album was recorded in Burkina Faso, specifically in Bobo-Dioulasso in March 2022.
In “Ouaga-Bobo”, Koita passionately narrates his deep love for his homeland, Burkina Faso. Situated in West Africa, this country, known as the “red land of honest men“, holds a special place in his heart. He reminiscences about Ouagadougou, the economic hub, and Bobo-Dioulasso, the cultural epicenter and the country’s second-largest city.
The latter holds even more significance for Koita, as it is where he was born and bred, and where his journey as a man and a musician began. Even though his musical career has given him the opportunity to explore various parts of the globe, nothing compares to the camaraderie, warmth, and unparalleled hospitality he feels in Burkina Faso.
While he now lives in France, he feels a constant tug between his new life and his origins. This is poignantly captured in the phrase, “I leave and I return.”
Moussa Koita’s roots trace back to Bobo-Dioulasso in Burkina Faso. Born into a family of griots, or traditional storytellers, he was immersed in the Mandingue music from a tender age. His father, Harouna Koita, was a musician with the international ensemble Farafina, and his mother was a singer for ceremonies.
This rich heritage was further enhanced by his uncle and neighbor, Victor Démé, who introduced him to the guitar and brought him on stage as early as nine years old. As he grew, he performed with groups like Djeliya, and alongside artists such as Adama Dramé.
Having resided in France for several years, Koita has collaborated as a multi-instrumentalist with numerous musical entities, including Rivière Noire, Sam Mangwana, Abou Diarra, Kady Diarra, Pep’s, and le Cirque Mandingue Guinéen, to name a few.
His upcoming album Ayé encapsulates a diverse blend of traditional sounds, reggae, rock, blues, and soul, reflecting his varied cultural and musical background. Through his music, he speaks of life, tolerance, and kindness, always with an underlying theme of unity in diversity.
His enchanting voice and melodies are an invitation to journey through the beautiful red landscapes of Burkina Faso. Close your eyes, and let the music take you there.
Listen to “Ouaga-Bobo” below!
#Peace.Love.OuagaBobo
