Ballaké Sissoko

A 21st century master of his instrument, Ballaké Sissoko is a Malian kora player known for his instrumental innovation and numerous collaborations outside of West African music. He first rose to international success alongside fellow kora master Toumani Diabaté on the 1999 album New Ancient Strings, then spent the next two decades forging cross-cultural connections with musicians from around the globe. Sissoko is a member of the world music trio 3MA and has made several albums with classical cellist Vincent Ségal including 2015's enchanting Musique de Nuit. His 2021 album Djourou was another diverse affair that traversed rock, hip-hop, and classical.