Jali Kunda: Griots of West Africa & Beyond [With CD] : Book Review

"Jali Kunda" is a captivating memoir by Foday Musa Suso, a renowned Gambian musician, master kora player, and griot. This book takes readers on a remarkable journey through Suso's life and musical career, providing a deep and enriching exploration of West African music and culture.

Suso begins by painting a vivid picture of his early life in Gambia and his introduction to the kora, a traditional West African string instrument. Through his storytelling, he beautifully conveys the importance of music and the griot tradition in his community, showcasing his passion for music and the spiritual connection he feels with the kora.

As the memoir unfolds, Suso takes readers on an exciting adventure as he travels to the United States and Europe, collaborating with renowned artists such as jazz musician Herbie Hancock. These encounters provide a unique insight into the blending of cultures, demonstrating how music can transcend boundaries and foster unity among diverse communities.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Jali Kunda" is Suso's ability to seamlessly intertwine personal anecdotes with rich historical context. He delves into the legacy of his griot family, shedding light on the crucial role that griots play in preserving history and transmitting traditions through storytelling. This adds a profound layer of understanding to the cultural and historical significance of music in West Africa.

In summary, "Jali Kunda" is a beautifully written memoir that offers not only an intimate account of Foday Musa Suso's life but also a profound exploration of West African music and culture. It highlights the power of music to bridge gaps between different cultures and promote understanding. Whether you have a love for music, history, or a well-told story, this memoir is sure to captivate and inspire.

What are readers saying?

"Foday Musa Suso's book, "Jali Kunda," has received a range of reviews. The story is based on Suso's life as a renowned jali, or storyteller, in Gambia and delves into his experiences, traditions, and the significance of music.

Some readers praised "Jali Kunda" for its unique cultural insights, lauding Suso's storytelling skills and vivid descriptions of Gambian traditions. They felt transported to Gambia through the pages of the book and appreciated learning about the jali tradition and the importance of music in the author's life.

However, other readers struggled to connect with "Jali Kunda." They found the narrative disjointed and lacking a clear structure, making it difficult to follow. Some reviewers also expressed difficulty relating to the cultural context and desired additional background information to fully comprehend the story.

Many readers admired the book's exploration of the power of music and its impact on the author's life. They found the discussions on the kora, a traditional West African instrument, and its significance in the jali tradition fascinating. These readers believed that the inclusion of musical elements added depth and richness to the narrative.

Conversely, some reviewers felt overwhelmed by the musical aspects, believing that they overshadowed the storytelling. They desired a more balanced approach, asserting that the book focused too heavily on technical musical details, hindering their ability to engage with the story itself.

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