At 88, celebrated Malian singer Mariam Bagayoko continues to captivate audiences with her energetic performances and powerful renditions of traditional Malian songs.
For Bagayoko, music is more than a career—it is a lifelong passion that began in childhood during traditional community gatherings.
“From the time I was very small, I began singing in the way of my community. Even before I could speak properly, I would join the women’s evening gatherings around the pounding mortars and sing with them,” she recalled.
Bagayoko has devoted her life to promoting Mali’s traditional music at home and abroad while advocating for the preservation of its cultural heritage.
However, she is concerned that the country’s original musical rhythms are gradually being lost as younger musicians incorporate influences from other countries.
“Today, the n’goussoumbala and the yabara are still present in our music. But the rhythms of our homeland are no longer there,” she said.
According to the veteran singer, younger performers have increasingly modernised traditional rhythms and adapted them to foreign styles, diminishing what she described as their original cultural value.
“As a result, they are gradually losing their intrinsic value and the original rhythms are falling into oblivion. Worse still, during competitions they now only play the rhythms of neighbouring countries,” she said.
Bagayoko’s musical ambitions were not initially welcomed by her father, but she continued pursuing her passion and eventually built a distinguished career.
She has also found strong support from her children, whom she hopes will preserve and pass on her musical legacy to future generations.
“I leave my legacy to the children. They will know how to sing in my absence,” she said.
Recalling a recent performance by her daughter, Bagayoko said she was encouraged by the younger generation’s willingness to embrace traditional music.
“Only last night, my daughter sang and danced in front of the audience just like I do. She climbed onto the balafon to dance, then carried on dancing on solid ground as well; it was unforgettable,” she said.
“If they don’t stray from the path and aren’t ashamed of it, the next generation is assured.”
Bagayoko’s contribution to Malian traditional music received international recognition in 2025 when she was presented with a lifetime achievement honour at the Aga Khan Music Awards in London.
She was selected for the honour from more than 400 candidates from around the world, further cementing her status as one of Mali’s enduring voices in traditional music. (Africa News)
