The Living History Book - Griot Tradition

The word "Griot" appears often in the sleeve notes of some of the albums featured on the TT in this first month. So, an explanation of this important character and their position in West African society is worthy of some further investigation.

In the days of the great Malian empire in the middle of the 14th Century the Griot's role was fundamental. They were the wise men who at the very senior level provided advice to kings and guidance on present-day dilemmas and problems, while at the grass-roots level mediated marriage rites or disputes that arose between families.

On top of this their hereditary linage meant that could lay claim to being living, breathing history books of the era and their position was elevated by this fact.

In the Epic of Sundjata, King Naré Maghann Konaté offered his son Sundiata a griot, Balla Fasséké, to advise him in his reign. Balla Fasséké is thus considered the first griot and the founder of the Kouyaté line of griots that exists to this day.

Over time the griot also became official musicians of society and would be called on to entertain the king and his entourage, as well as help to prepare warriors for battle with rousing stories - in fact a warrior king (jatigi) could not be without his griot.

Today the griot is still a revered character in West-African society.

Griot artists include: Mory Kanté (Guinea), Ba Cissoko (Guinea), Kasse Mady Diabate (Mali), Toumani Diabaté (Mali), Baba Sissoko (Mali).

(Picture featured: Fernand Allard L’Olivier, 1883–1933 Belgian, Kiyu Agricole date unknown, Oil on canvas)