A&E

Fest Focus: Vieux Farka Touré

by Van McNeil

Vieux Farka Touré is a critically lauded singer and guitarist from Niafunké, Mali. He is the son of another legendary Malian guitar player, Ali Farka Touré. His father disapproved of his son’s guitar playing, oddly enough, but gave his blessing eventually. Vieux’s debut album even features his father playing on a few tracks, and it’s said that on his deathbed Ali would play his Vieux’s music to visitors, showing pride in his son’s talent.

Touré’s music is influenced by the West African sound he grew up hearing his father play, as well as the American Blues. Touré has been called “The Hendrix of the Sahara” and it’s an apt comparison. One must only listen to know that his skill at the guitar is irrefutable. His guitar has a way of sounding gentle and vicious all at once, and his breakneck speed and pinpoint accuracy are impressive. He’s the type of musician who makes one remember how beautiful an acoustic guitar sounds in the right hands.

He donated 10 percent of the proceeds of his 2007 self-titled debut to the “Fight Malaria” campaign in Niafunké, which helps deliver mosquito nets to the people of the region. He’s also a preservationist of Malian culture, and his latest album, Mon Pays, is dedicated to his home country.

Vieux Farka Touré will be performing April 24 from 9:15 - 10:30 p.m. on the Scene TV5MONDE stage.