About Mady
Djely Mady Kouyate was born into the noble Kouyate family, which holds a great responsibility and the honorable role of the oral historian (The Griot). Birthed by two Manding Griots, he has grown up with the ancient traditions. The people of the Griot lineage hold the stories, melodies, songs, and rhythms of the experiences of the Manding people throughout the centuries. Currently, Mady Kouyate is the 150th generation and carries the tradition by passing along his knowledge to his children.
Steeped in the culture, Kora was played throughout the house by the members of their family. As a boy, Mady was not only exposed to traditional arts and a multitude of instruments and artists daily, but he was also taught notes, concepts of a variety of world music, and true musical studies. His father was the chief Djely Mamadou Kouyate, who was a Founding member and program creator for the traditional instrument curriculum of the Conservatory of Arts in Senegal. This school was dedicated to preserving the traditional arts and still exists today. Mady developed his skills at this school by immersing himself in his studies and his love for music theory. After his time at the conservatory, he traveled to Mali to study under the infamous Toumani Diabaté, who was his cousin, teacher, and mentor. After many years studying with Toumani in Mali, he became the sole Kora player for an international folkloric ballet that traveled all throughout America called "Mandinka Epic". Since then, he has been performing all over America and Africa and delivers high-level artistry in his work.
Playing the 21-stringed West African Harp, he brings the Griot tradition and infuses it with his passion and extensive knowledge of Jazz, Bossa Nova, R&B, Gospel, Pop, and much more. He composes, arranges, and directs his original works, and he reworks the traditional stories. Mady performs at festivals with a wide range from Folk to World, Universities with residencies included, Educational Performances from K-12, Corporate Events, Television Appearances and Radio spots (such as PBS), Documentary inclusions, Theatres, Clubs, Private Events, Weddings (ceremonies and receptions), has experience with bands in many genres, Building Custom Koras, and the list goes on.
He is a true gem, who is full of knowledge and mastery of his art, who carries a piece of the past to share the wisdom and heritage of his ancestors with us.