Super Rail Band de Bamako

Founded in Mali, West Africa in 1970, the Super Rail Band de Bamako is now acknowledged as one of the pioneers of Afropop. They are one of the first bands from the region to mix Afro-Latin music with traditional instruments. The group has operated under several other names including the Rail Band, Super Rail band, Bamako Rail Band, and Super Rail Band of the Buffet Hotel de la Gare, Bamako. Sponsored by the Malian government, the Rail Band was formed by vocalist Salif Keita and band leader Tidiani Koné. Initially a Latin jazz band, they integrated local influences as well as Afropop. The band created their sound by combining electric guitar, electric organ, saxophone, and horns with regional instruments such as talking drums, balafon, kora, and ngoni. They performed as the house band at the Station Hotel in Bamako and released their debut album, Orchestre Rail-Band de Bamako, in 1970. The band was extremely popular and toured throughout the region to adoring audiences and, in the process, influenced many other West African musicians. They released several more albums including Tiramakan (1974), Soundiata (1975), Mélodias ‘Rail Band’ Du Mali (1976) and many others. The group’s line-up changed frequently over the years with Salif Keita leaving in 1982 to pursue a solo career. Other members of the band throughout their career included singer Mory Kanté, guitarist Kante Manfila, and Djelimady Tounkara (guitar) who was one of the few constant members throughout most of their career. The band continues to tour with a constantly revolving line-up.

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