SONA JOBARTEH

"Jobarteh is unique...Africa's first female griot kora virtuoso...blending traditional music, blues and Afropop to impressive effect. " —The Guardian

Sona Jobarteh is one of the world’s most extraordinary kora players, bringing the luminous sound of the 21-string West African harp to audiences across the globe. The spirit of Sona Jobarteh’s musical work stands on the mighty shoulders of the West African Griot Tradition. She is a living archive of the Gambian people and is the first woman in her lineage to master and professionally perform this intricate instrument, carrying forward centuries of musical storytelling with breathtaking precision and soul.

Her virtuosic kora playing is the heart of every performance, weaving cascading melodies and intricate rhythms while she sings in her native languages. Rooted in the ancient West African griot tradition yet alive with contemporary energy, her music feels both timeless and immediate. Leading a dynamic band, she creates concerts that are powerful, joyful, and deeply moving.

Jobarteh has captivated audiences at major venues including the Hollywood Bowl and London’s Barbican Centre, and has been featured on 60 Minutes. With millions of listeners worldwide, she continues to expand the reach of the kora, honoring her heritage while redefining its sound for today’s global stage.