Probably one of the smallest countries in Africa both in size and population, The Gambia can boast of a rich and diverse music culture owing to a multi ethnic and cultural society... More…

Dembo Jobarteh is a griot from Niani Kayai, The Gambia. Dembo was brought up in the traditional griot way. He worked in the groundnut and rice paddies, studying kora and drums in his spare time. At the age of 18 Dembo was a professional koraplayer and singer . He went to Dakar, Senegal and played in restaurants and tourist markets. After two years he came back to The Gambia. Here he founded the Gambian Griot School of Music and Dance .

Dembo Jobarteh is a nephew of Amadu Bansang Jobarteh, the famous kora-player and teacher of world music specialist Lucy Duran. Amadu Bansang became well known for his album Tabara. Another famous family member is Malamini Jobarteh , father of Tata Dindin.

Dembo has released 2 cd's these can be ordered from http://www.listenall.com

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