Biography
Ami Koita infuses Malian music with a distinctly female viewpoint. Her commanding voice and commanding performances have established her as an inspiring figure for women across West Africa. Though born in Kirina, the very village that produced Salif Keita, she traces her lineage to an entirely separate heritage. Keita entered the world within a noble household and defied his parents to pursue music, whereas Koita grew up in a Jali lineage where musical performance formed a respected tradition. Early work centered on classic Jali forms, yet her sound has steadily incorporated contemporary elements.
Albums