Performers

Kocassale Dioubate, from the Mandingo (or Malinke) tribe of Guinea, West Africa, is a descendant of his tribe’s djeliba (also known as griots)—traditional storytellers, entertainers, musicians, praise singers, counselors, and mediators. Griots are the keepers of oral history and tradition, known for their deep connections to spiritual, social, and political life.

Koca was born into this rich lineage of artistry and cultural knowledge, and has been playing music, creating songs, and dancing since early childhood—ever since he was old enough to walk.