Marco Antonio Rico Belmont, also known as Marquito Balafon on Facebook from Mexico, recently shared some insightful thoughts about our discussion on the group “Fatala.” He emphasized the significance of Maestro Yacouba “Bruno” Camara as the director and founder, but he also wanted to shed light on the equally remarkable contributions of Arafan Touré.

Arafan’s extraordinary talent in playing two djembes simultaneously not only set him apart but also sparked engaging debates within the music community. Many fans ponder whether he or the renowned percussionist Papa Kouyate, celebrated for his collaborations with Míriam Makeba and as the leader of “Les Sorcières de Papa Kouyate,” truly pioneered this unique playing style.

Additionally, Marco highlighted the crucial role groups like Africa Djole and Fatala had in introducing vibrant African music to European audiences, particularly in the Netherlands and Belgium. Their efforts laid a solid foundation for the legendary Mamady Keita as he expanded his reach in these countries.

It’s also essential to acknowledge the essential contributions of other talented musicians in “Fatala.” For instance, Aly Camara, who now resides in Atlanta, Georgia, has made significant strides in the music scene. Additionally, the incredible dundun fola Amara Souma and Tagar, who mastered minor percussion, played vital roles in creating the group’s distinctive sound.

Please click on the link below to see the Fatala video!

Let’s not forget the dynamic dancers and vocalists who brought energy and life to their performances. Artists like Binnette Diallo and the phenomenal Mabinty Sahko deserve special recognition—Mabinty journeyed across Europe with Mamady Keita, where they recorded timeless classics such as “Djole,” “Sorsornet,” “Denadon,” and “Tiriba,” which continue to resonate with fans around the world. Marco’s reflections remind us of the rich tapestry woven by these exceptional artists and the lasting impact they’ve had on the world of music!