Afropop Worldwide

After fleeing war in their home of Gao in northern Mali, the members of Songhoy Blues moved to Mali’s capital, Bamako, where they formed a group, mixing Songhai traditions with Western rock influences. They soon caught the attention of Nick Zinner, the guitarist of indie rockers the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, who produced the band's debut album Maison des Jeunes.in 2013. Songhoy Blues takes the stage tomorrow night at Mercury Lounge, and Afropop has a pair of free tickets for the show to give away to one lucky winner. Songhoy Blues also appears in the new documentary, They Will Have to Kill Us First, along with Malian legends Toumani Diabate and Khaira Arby. In light of the threats musicians still face in their native region, Songhoy Blues’ music rocks all the more powerfully. For a chance to get tickets, email info@afropop.org with your name and the subject “Songhoy Blues.” You can check out a video of Songhoy Blues playing with Zinner below.