Toure is one of Africa’s best known musicians and embodies the sound that served as an essential progenitor of the Blues.
Toure, who passed away in 2006, recorded and played concerts with Ry Cooder, Taj Mahal and a number of other leading Western artists and is listed by many as a prime influence. Tonight we’ll listen to his piece “Mali Dje”, which offers wonderful pre-echoes of traditional Blues.
Here's Toure's son, Vieux Farka, recorded live paying tribute with one of his father's most beloved songs, "Ai Du":
http://youtu.be/iqIP5CeEK_c
Also on the show will be a track from Roomful of Blues. You'll note that I have a soft spot for horn bands and I think Roomful of Blues is one of the best. They have been around for more than 30 years and have had more than 50 different members, but whatever era and whatever personnel they never fail to deliver top quality Blues and R&B.
And don’t miss Alberta Hunter, recorded in part 2 of her career, when she returned to the clubs and stages after a 30 year hiatus during which she became the first African-American head of nursing at Chicago’s top hospital. Always a pleaser, heard here in her 80s, she was better than ever and a true Blues treasure.
http://youtu.be/GaqL81L7Heo
Join me Saturday night for these artists plus Buddy Guy, Willie Nelson and Wynton Marsalis, Pinetop Perkins and more on The Nine O’Clock Blues.
