A little over one year ago, Mamady Keïta, legend of the djembe and international ambassador of Mandinka culture and rhythms, passed away in Brussels. His family and children are organizing an event as a tribute to his work, bringing together many artists who have shared his journey and his message. Among them, we can count on the presence of several members of Sewa Kan, Kobe Na Wati and many other artists who have worked with the Master of Djembefola. In the first part of the evening, the film ‘Djembefola’ will be screened in the presence of director Laurent Chevalier. Then his family and friends will perpetuate his talent by showcasing Mandingo dances and rhythms.

Born in 1950 in Balandugu (Guinea), Mamady Keïta was introduced to Mandinka music at a very young age by Karinkadjan Kondé in his native village. At 14, he was selected to join the Djoliba National Ballet of Guinea as the first soloist of djembefola and from 1979, he became the artistic director of the group until 1986. Later, he also joined the Ballet Koteba d ‘Abidjan (Ivory Coast). These two experiences lead him to make numerous pan-African and European tours.

In 1988, he moved to Belgium and taught djembe and Mandinka rhythms at the Répercussions school, before founding his own school “Tam Tam Mandingue” a little later, of which he then opened several branches around the world. At the same time, he founded the group Sewa Kan, which means “the sound of joy”, joy which he spread on numerous stages throughout Europe, in Japan and around the world for years.

• 5:00 p.m.: Opening and musical welcome
• 6 p.m.: Film Djembefola in the presence of director Laurent Chevalier
• 8:00 p.m.: Concerts
  • Brimah Don Don
  • Kobe Na Awati
  • Famoudou Konate
  • Sewa Kan
• 11:00 p.m.: Jam Session at the Bar/Foyer

Snacks will be sold at the foyer from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.