(headline image: Salif Keita – Photo by Lucille Reyboz)
Malian music icon Salif Keita has released “Chérie,” a track from his upcoming album So Kono, set for release on April 11, 2025, via NØ FØRMAT!
“Chérie” is a heartfelt plea for loyalty and honesty in love. Through lyrics such as “Chérie, don’t betray me. My love, it’s not good to argue… Chérie, don’t humiliate me, tell me the truth,” Keita expresses vulnerability and a desire for reassurance in the face of uncertainty.
Featuring Keita’s acoustic guitar alongside Badie Tounkara on ngoni and Mamadou Kone on calabash, So Kono is a stripped-down, intimate album. Primarily recorded live in his Kyoto hotel room during the Kyotoponie Festival, the nine-track collection highlights his signature voice and refined songwriting, offering a contemplative and deeply personal listening experience.
Salif has previously released the album tracks ‘Kanté Manfila’ and ‘Tassi’.
Additionally, Salif is set to perform in Europe in May and June 2025.
21.05.25 – Le Trianon – PARIS
27.05.25 – Het Concertgebouw – AMSTERDAM
28.05.25 – Haus des Rundfunks & Grosser Sendesaal – BERLIN
29.05.25 – KOKO – LONDON
05.06.25 – Primavera Sound – BARCELONA
08.06.25 – Teatro Albéniz Universal Music Fest – MADRID
20.06.25 – Solstice On The Mount Festival – READING, UK
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central