Sekouba Diakite originates from Odienne (the Republic of Ivory Coast). Like his elder brother Isaac Ismael, Sekouba also sings in Malinke, Bambara, Diula, English, and French.
Sekouba comes from the neighborhood of Treichville in Abidjan, (known as ‘Treichtown’ to reggae fans). In 1986, Sékouba moved to The Gambia, where he lived until 1993 when he moved back to Abidjan.
After being enriched into the roots of the Bolomba style in The Gambia, the young Sekouba came alive with the West African sounds of the Mandinka.
Sekouba’s desire to sing came naturally but it was never a reality without the musical influence of his brother, Ismael Isaac. Sekouba’s other musical influences include, Lucky Dube, Alpha Blondy, and Bob Marley.
In 1999 he made his debut as an artist, tenaciously composing lyrics as a self-taught author, composer, and performer. His music reflects an eclectic mix of West African melodies, fused with traditional Reggae rhythms.
His debut album “I Love My People” featuring the title track “I’m So Glad,” was self produced in New York and arranged by Oscar Ankou. His second album “Sejou” was releases in June 2010 and features tracks like; “No Doubt,”mixing the styling of soulful Caribbean beats and a cool reggae vibe. “No Doubt” manages to deliver meaningful lyrics in a light-hearted way, echoing the sounds of Bob Marley. “Mandela,” a tribute to the great freedom fighter, Nelson Mandela, with up-tempo exotic beats and rhythms. “Mandela” showcases Sekouba’s rare powerful sound. And “Sejou,” the funky Reggae tune showcasing Sekouba’s African roots.
Sekouba currently resides in New York City, where he often performs at local festivals and clubs. Sekouba’s music seamlessly blends reggae rhythms with African beats and melodies.
Discography:
I Love My People
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
