By Yunus S Saliu
Renowned Gambian traditional musician, Jali Musa Jobarteh, is set to celebrate its 12th year musical anniversary on Saturday, 23rd November 2024 at Bakoteh Event Garden, Sukuta Highway. This event will not only mark the celebration of 12th year anniversary on stage as a professional musician but will also use to release his highly anticipated fifth new album titled Batoo Faloo.
Born in Foday Kunda, Upper River Region (URR), to the esteemed Jobarteh family—one of the region’s most celebrated traditional music lineages—Jali Musa, widely known by his sobriquet Jali Musa, has long used his music and powerful instrumental performances to tell the stories of his people, reflect on historical events, and address contemporary issues facing society. His work covers a wide range of topics, including cultural heritage, societal values, and important current affairs.
The new album, Batoo Faloo will be his fifth studio album following his earlier releases: his debut album in 2018, a second album in 2020, a third album in 2021 and fourth album in 2023. As the lead vocalist of the Mama Africa Band, Jali Musa’s musical journey reflects his deep-rooted connection to the traditions of his family and community.
Jali Musa grew up surrounded by music. He inherited his musical talent from both his parents: his father, BamusaJobarteh, taught him to play traditional instruments, while his mother, Sarjo Kanuteh, taught him the art of song composition, arrangement, and singing. Although Jali Musa’s formal education ended after upper basic school, his decision to pursue music has proven to be one he does not regret. He became a recognized figure in Gambian traditional music, ultimately earning the title of ‘Jali’—a griot and historian who preserves and shares the oral traditions of the Mandinka people.
Jali Musa’s musical skills extend beyond singing to include proficiency in several traditional instruments, including the balafon (known as the African piano) and the djembe drum. In addition to his musical career, he also worked as a farmer during school holidays, helping on his father’s farm in Foday Kunda.
Jali Musa’s music has gained recognition beyond The Gambia. With his Mama Africa Band, he has performed across the region, including in Senegal, Guinea, and other West African countries. Some of his most cherished works include the song Ding Wululalu, dedicated to his parents.
The album launch event on November 23 will feature special guest performances from notable artists, including Jali Haruna Jasee, Jali Wuday Kuyateh, Jali, Kaddy Suso, Jali Anty Jobarteh, Jali Suso and more.
This celebration will be a tribute to Jali Musa’s remarkable career and his contribution to preserving and promoting Gambian traditional music.