Sona Jobarteh

Returning to Strathmore after a sold out show last year, Sona Jobarteh is a living archive of the Gambian people, her musical spirit honoring the West African griot tradition.

Challenging norms, Jobarteh became the first professional female kora (a 12-stringed African harp) player. With an eye on history and the future, she is paving the way for the next generation. Her latest album, Badinyaa Kumoo, is an exciting fusion of traditional music with Afropop and blues. From Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl to New York’s Symphony Space in New York, London’s Barbican to Cologne’s Philharmonie, Jobarteh’s performances have enthralled sold-out crowds worldwide.