Renowned Malian duo Amadou & Mariam, known for their captivating international collaborations over the years, are back with an energetic new single, “Mogolu.” With a combined age of over 60 and a career spanning nearly 50 years, Amadou & Mariam are golden ambassadors of African popular music. Their latest offering, “Mogolu,” embodies their creative zest and legendary freshness.
“Mogolu,” meaning “people” in Bambara, blends African rhythms and hypnotic melodies, seamlessly merging tradition and modernity with an infusion of electronic elements, all delivered by Mariam’s angelic vocals. The single celebrates encounters, journeys, and differences, reflecting the duo’s longstanding message of peace. It also ignites a passion for dance, promising to spark vibrant, sun-drenched revelry.
The music video, shot in the vibrant city of Dakar, is directed by the up-and-coming Ojoz (known for his work with Yamê, Damso, Disiz, and others) and stars Tik Tok dancer Akamz.
“We’ve always dreamed of breaking down barriers, bringing new sounds to people’s ears, sharing Malian music with the world, and having it appreciated,” Amadou and Mariam explain.
The new single is a prelude to their upcoming album, “La Vie Est Belle,” set for release this autumn. The album will feature new tracks alongside classics from their career, such as “Dimanche à Bamako,” chronicling the duo’s extraordinary two-decade journey.
During these two decades, Amadou & Mariam have graced international stages, collaborating with a diverse range of artists including Damon Albarn of Blur, Santigold, Scissor Sisters, Theophilus London, Amp Fiddler, and many more. Throughout their career, the duo has traveled the globe, performing at the world’s biggest music festivals. They have expanded Malian blues (their foundation) into rock, hip-hop, disco, all while spreading the infectious joy of African popular music and their own zest for life.
