One World Records releases posthumous tribute album to Kassé Mady Diabaté

Toumaro, meaning “À bientôt” or “See you soon,” features Kassé Mady’s daughter, acclaimed singer Hawa Kassé Mady Diabaté, as both vocalist and songwriter. Hawa resumed work on the album after her father’s sudden passing in 2018, completing the recordings he had begun and infusing the project with poignant personal depth.

“This album is a testament to the richness of the griot tradition,” One World Records co-producer and owner Carolina Vallejo said. “It highlights the importance of passing on cultural and musical values, while also breathing new life into the genre through contemporary arrangements.”

Joining Hawa on the project are several esteemed musicians, including balafon master Lassana Diabaté, N’goni bass virtuoso Madou Kouyaté, who also arranged and mastered the album, and Malian guitarists Lassine Kouyaté and Gausou Kouyaté. Their collective work reflects a seamless blend of tradition and innovation.

The release was made possible through the visionary efforts of executive producer Ibrahim Kaba, of K'MAM production, known for his dedication to preserving Mali’s musical heritage. “Thanks to Ibrahim Kaba’s commitment and collaboration with the studio and label teams, this project became a reality,” Vallejo said. “His work, including recent productions such as Djudjon, L’Oiseau de Garaná by Bassekou Kouyaté and Amy Sacho, affirms his deep investment in safeguarding Manding culture.”

Hawa, herself a central figure in contemporary Malian music and a member of the acclaimed group Trio Da Kali, continues to garner international praise. The group’s previous albums, Ladilikan (with the Kronos Quartet) and Bagola, have cemented their place as torchbearers of the griot tradition.

Originally planned for release last year, Toumaro was delayed to allow space for Bagola to shine. However, its arrival now offers a deeply moving musical experience, resonating with themes of love, legacy, and spiritual connection.

Kassé Mady Diabaté, often referred to as “the golden voice of Mali,” released six albums between 1989 and 2014, with classics like Fodé, Manden, Djeli Kan and Kiriké defining his career. With Toumaro, audiences around the world are invited to rediscover the soul of a master and the timeless beauty of Malian music.

Toumaro is available for streaming on Spotify and Deezer. The CD edition will be released on 27 June 2025, with a vinyl version to follow on 1 August 2025.