Toumani DiabatéMali |1965| OtherToumani Diabaté, born into a prominent Malian griot family, was a celebrated master of the kora, a 21-stringed instrument deeply rooted in the Mandé empire's musical heritage. Following in his father's footsteps, he taught himself to play the kora and gained international recognition as a virtuoso. His albums, "Kaira" (1988) and "The Mandé Variations" (2008), showcased his unique ability to blend traditional sounds with modern elements. Notably, Diabaté also led the Symmetric Orchestra, a musical ensemble that combined West African music with global influences. He collaborated with many artists, including Ali Farka Touré, Taj Mahal, and Béla Fleck, leaving a lasting global impact before his passing in July 2024.