Update May 10, 2026: Papa Zani and his family and friends are all safe. The security situation in Mali is worse now. The city of Bamako was attacked on April 25. There have been roadblocks on all vehicles coming into the capital city and many are not free to travel. My hope and prayer is all the beautiful music coming in and out of Mali will help bring peace and prosperity to the region in the days to come. This video is a tribute to Bamako. Please watch and share Welcome to Bamako to keep the positive vibes flowing.
Welcome to Bamako” – Official Music Video
Welcome to Bamako is a musical tour through the vibrant capital city of Mali. Sung primarily in Bambara (with a short English refrain), the song offers a lyrical snapshot of Bamako’s history—from its earliest settlers to the present day—while celebrating the beauty, warmth, and hospitality of its people.
The song was co-written and arranged by Papa Zani Diabaté and Lindsey Schust, blending traditional Malian musical roots with a contemporary, cross-cultural sound.
Lindsey Schust (vocals in Bambara and English) is a singer-songwriter, percussionist, and cross-cultural music advocate. She began studying African drumming as a child, when her parents built large ashiko drums for the legendary Babatunde Olatunji, who later became her mentor and godfather. Lindsey grew up immersed in African music, surrounded by musicians who performed in rural New Hampshire. Traditional and popular African music continues to inspire her songwriting across genres—from salsa to country.
Papa Zani Diabaté (guitar and djembe) comes from a distinguished djeli (griot) lineage. He is the only son of the late Zani Diabaté of the Super Djata Band. Papa Zani’s playing carries his father’s signature pentatonic style, earning Zani Diabaté the nickname “the Jimi Hendrix of Mali.”
Guest vocalist Alou Sangaré (Bambara vocals) also comes from a strong musical lineage—his father was a lead singer of the Super Djata Band.