Malian-born, Paris-based singer/songwriter Fatoumata Diawara released her debut album, Fatou, all the way back in 2011 and since then has been involved in a variety of projects with other musicians like Cuban pianist Roberto Fonseca, and fellow Malians Amadou & Mariam and Oumou Sangaré. Recently, she finally unveiled her sophomore solo album, Fenfo. The title translates as “something to say,” and even if you don’t speak Bambara, it’s clear that she does. “Negue Negue” is one of the more upbeat tracks on the album, a funky dance track that could hold relevance at any time or place. Below, watch the video for early single “Nterini,” which follows one migrant man as he crosses the desert with a single bag, shedding light on the global migration crisis.
Finding good new music can be a full time job, so let KEXP help! In Our Headphones brings you five song recommendations every Monday, straight from KEXP’s DJs and Music Directors. Join hosts Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili on this never-ending journey of music discovery.
Host Emily Fox and KEXP’s editorial team talk with artists about the stories behind their songs and the experiences that inform their work. Through each conversation, we uncover the humanity behind the music, allowing us to hear it in a whole new way.