Sali Sidibé

With her gutsy, neo-traditional vocals set to a unique blend of didai, sigui, and sogonikun dance rhythms, Sali Sidibe is one of Mali's greatest vocalists. Recording her first singles in the '60s, she helped to lay the foundation for the Wassoulou music of the '80s. According to RootsWorld, "A mixture of stark beauty and tonal richness, the music of Mali is compelling and enchanting. The voice of Sali Sidibe captures all of that range and depth." In addition to releasing a solo album, Wassoulou Foli, in 1993, Sidibe has recorded an album, Whirl-Y-Waves, with the London to Africa All Stars. ~ Craig Harris