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ANSUMANA

Chapter 1: Roots of Rhythm

Born in The Gambia, a country rich in culture and musical tradition. From a young age, the sounds of the Kora,Balafon and Djembe filled my home, weaving a tapestry of rhythm that resonated deep within me. My family, steeped in the traditions of our ancestors, nurtured my passion for music, encouraging me to explore the instruments that have been played for generations.

Chapter 2: The Awakening

As a child, I would sit for hours, mesmerized by the musicians in my community. Their fingers danced over strings and skins, creating melodies that spoke to the soul. I learnt to play my first instrument, the balafon. As I learnt to walk and talk, learning to play balafon developed the same way naturally since the instrument was always available for playing in the house where we lived. 2009 my mom bouught me a kora and the moment my fingers touched the strings, I felt an indescribable connection—a spark that ignited my journey as a musician. Over the years, I learned to play various instruments, including the djembe, drums and guitar, each one adding a new layer to my musical identity.

Chapter 3: A National Treasure

As I grew older, my passion for music transformed into a calling. I began performing at local festivals and events, sharing the rhythms of my culture with anyone willing to listen. My vibrant energy and ability to seamlessly transition between instruments quickly garnered attention. I became a familiar face in the Gambian music scene, known for my soulful performances that captured the essence of traditional African music.

My reputation spread beyond our borders, leading me to perform at prestigious venues in different parts of the world, Asia, Europe and Africa, most recently the Glastonbury,Womad festival, Shambala festival. I had the honor of supporting some of the biggest hip-hop acts in the country, blending traditional sounds with contemporary influences. This fusion allowed me to reach new audiences, showcasing the beauty of African music in a modern context.

Chapter 4: A New Chapter in the UK

In pursuit of collaboration and innovation, I made the bold decision to relocate to the UK. The vibrant music scene here is a melting pot of cultures, and I felt an irresistible pull to be a part of it. With my youthful energy and deep-rooted connection to traditional music, I knew I could contribute something unique.

Settling into this new environment was both exhilarating and challenging. I immersed myself in the local music community, attending jam sessions and collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds. Each encounter enriched my understanding of music and inspired me to push the boundaries of my craft.

Chapter 5: The Journey Continues

Today, I stand at the intersection of tradition and innovation. My journey is a testament to the power of music as a universal language. I strive to honor my roots while exploring new sounds and styles. My dream is to create music that resonates with people from all walks of life, bridging cultures through the rhythm of the instruments I cherish.

As I continue to perform and collaborate, I remain committed to sharing the vibrant spirit of West African music with the world. My story is just beginning, and I invite you to join me on this extraordinary journey—a journey filled with rhythm, soul, and the unbreakable connection we all share through music.


With each performance, I hope to inspire others to embrace their own musical journeys, reminding them that the beauty of music lies in its ability to connect us all. Thank you for being a part of my story.

 

© 2024 by KMS

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