Rokia Traoré - BAM R&B Festival at Metrotech August 6, 2009

Drawing on her Malian roots to inform her unique style of world music, Rokia Traoré is a fearless performer. Her brooding, intimate vocals—often sung in her native Bamanan—carry messages of empowerment, calling on women, Malians, and the globally disenfranchised to demand respect and dignity. Backed by compelling refrains played on both traditional and contemporary instruments, from the Malian ngoni and balafon to rhythm guitar and synthesizer, Traoré’s global funk sound is both engaging and inspiring. Embracing strength, honor, and pride in everything she does, her gentle but undeniable command makes her adventurous performances all the more potent.

Official Website: http://bam.org/view.aspx?pid=1190