American Roots Concert Series: Boka Kouyaté & the Djeliyah Band

Boka Kouyaté is a singer and multi-instrumentalist (balafón, guitar, djembe) from Guinea. He is a member of West Africa’s most famous family of Mande hereditary musicians, also referred to as griots or djelys. After moving to the United States in early 2014, Boka Kouyaté co-founded Kouyaté Arts, an interactive performance company of drummers, dancers and singers.  He is the lead vocalist, composer and founder of the Djeliyah Band.  The Djeliyah Band presents West African Music & Dance, fusing traditional Griot and Djeli music with Afro-Beat and the modern music of Guinea to share the energetic Highlife sound. 

Dance Workshop with Kouyaté Arts

Before the concert, come join our Dance Workshop with Kouyaté Arts at 6-6:45pm. Join Kouyaté Arts for an interactive, high-energy session blending traditional West African dance, drumming, and history. This workshop invites people of all ages and experience levels to learn some introductory West African dance moves.  

Accessibility statement

Washington State Parks Folk & Traditional Arts Program is committed to making our events accessible to everyone. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact FolkArts@parks.wa.gov or (360) 701-7923 at least 14 days prior to the event. For more information, please visit https://parks.wa.gov/folk-and-traditional-arts-program.