Afropop Worldwide

It is with great sadness that we note the passing of a pioneer of West African Mande music, kora maestro and musical innovator extraordinaire Foday Musa Suso.

Foday was one of the first artists ever interviewed for Afropop Worldwide, back in 1987 on the heels of his groundbreaking collaboration with Herbie Hancock, Village Life.

His work with the Mandingo Griot Society in the late '70s was a harbinger of so much to come as West African music gained a footing in the American and global media universe.

He continued to perform, teach, innovate and uphold the great traditions of his ancestors up to his final days. He will be well remembered and sorely missed.

Here is a remembrance of Foday from Hon Justice Ebrima Jaiteh, who knew him well.