Idrissa Soumaoro, a versatile artist, educator, and composer, was born in 1949 in Welessebugu (Ouéléssébougou), Mali. His musical journey commenced when he discovered his musical passion while experimenting with a modern guitar courtesy of his brother-in-law, a music teacher. During his urban escapades in Bamako, he developed an affinity for instruments such as the harmonica and flute. Upon returning home, he warmly embraced the guitar and, at a tender age of 15, founded the ensemble Djitoumou-Jazz de Ouéléssédougou. His exceptional aptitude swiftly propelled him to the prestigious Institut National des Arts in Bamako, where he recorded songs for ORTM Télévision.
One of his remarkable compositions, “Ancien combattant,” achieved prominence when it was performed by the Congolese artist Zao. Balancing the roles of an educator and a musician, he became a member of the legendary Ambassadeurs du Motel. Having honed his craft with Les Ambassadeurs alongside Salif Keita in Bamako, he embarked on a new musical chapter in 1978, relocating to Segu in south-central Mali.
For numerous years, he has been a pivotal figure in Malian music, earning the title of the Knight of the National order of Mali in acknowledgment of his invaluable contributions to Malian culture and music. This achievement caught the attention of the renowned African producer, Ibrahim Sylla (known for collaborating with luminaries like Salif Keita, Baaba Maal, and Ismael Lo), who collaborated with Idrissa and orchestrated the release of the album Köte in 2003.
In 2004, Idrissa Soumaoro clinched the prestigious 2004 Radio France International (RFI) World Music Award.
Over the past three decades and beyond, Idrissa has imparted the art of music to visually impaired individuals, and among his notable students are the famed duo Amadou & Mariam.
His discography includes Köte, Djitoumou, and Diré. These recordings reflect his dreams of solidarity and humor-infused societal portraits.
(headline image: Idrissa Soumaoro playing guitar – Photo by Nicolas Réméné)
Discography:
Idrissa Soumaoro et L’Eclipse De L’I.J.A. – Le Tioko-Tioko (Eterna, 1978)
Köte (Wrasse Records, 2003)
Djitoumou (Lusafrica, 2010)
Diré (Mieruba, 2023)
Author: Douglas Sanders
