Mali: Amadou Bagayoko of iconic duo Amadou and Mariam dies aged 70

According to relatives, Amadou, aged 70, had been unwell for some time. His stepson, Youssouf Fadiga, told AFP: “He had been unwell for a while…” Their manager, Yannick Tardy, added: “He was feeling very tired and was taken to hospital. He passed away suddenly in the afternoon in Bamako.”

For decades, Amadou and his wife Mariam Doumbia formed an internationally celebrated musical partnership, known for blending traditional Malian music with rock guitar, harmonica, and rich vocal harmonies.

Both visually impaired, the pair met in 1975 at the Institut des Jeunes Aveugles de Bamako (Institute for the Young Blind in Bamako). Amadou was a guitarist, Mariam a singer. They began performing together shortly after and rose to prominence in Mali before expanding their fanbase across West Africa, particularly after spending several years in Côte d’Ivoire.

Their breakthrough on the international stage came in 2004 with the release of Dimanche à Bamako, produced by French musician Manu Chao. The album, a critical and commercial success, earned them a Victoire de la Musique award in France in 2005 in the World Music category.

Amadou & Mariam went on to collaborate with numerous internationally renowned artists and graced stages at some of the world’s biggest festivals. Their music, cherished for its heartfelt depictions of everyday life, blended the traditions of Bambara melodies with rock, blues, funk, and electronic influences. In interviews, Amadou often described their signature sound as “Afro-blues-rock”. 

Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from fellow artists and cultural figures. Congolese star Fally Ipupa wrote on social media: “Rest in peace, Maestro Amadou. My heartfelt condolences to Tata Mariam. I still can’t believe you’re gone. We were working on an incredible collaboration that sadly never saw the light of day. Thank you for everything—you will never be forgotten.”

Beninese singer Angellique Kidj wrote: “RIP Amadou. I will never forget your generosity and your talent when you played on my album Djin Djin. Your guitar carried the song from beginning to end.”

Malian singer Oumou Sangare also wrote: “It is with a broken heart that I learn today of the death of Amadou Bagayoko. My dear Amadou, you were a pillar of Malian music, an ambassador whose talent shone throughout the world. Your guitar and your voice touched so many souls and carried countless messages of peace and hope.”

Amadou Bagayoko’s legacy remains deeply embedded in African music history, a testament to his artistry, spirit, and cultural impact across generations.