Salif Keita
- Known For
- Acting
- Born
- August 25, 1949 in Djoliba, Mali
- Active Years
- 1976–2024 (49 Years)
- Total Credits
- 21 credits in database
Biography
Salif Keïta is a Malian singer and musician born on August 25, 1949, in Djoliba, Mali. A descendant of the Mali Empire founder Sundiata Keïta, he is known for blending Mande music traditions with jazz, rhythm and blues, and international styles to pioneer the Afropop genre. Keïta, who has albinism, originally aspired to be a teacher but pursued music after facing rejection due to his eyesight. He left for Bamako in 1968, where he joined the Rail Band De Bamako and later the group Les Ambassadeurs in 1973. He is the father of Nantenin Keïta, a French athlete and double Paralympic champion. Keïta found success in Europe as a world music star and maintains a career in music and performance.
Career overview
Salif Keita is a Malian singer and musician born on August 25, 1949, in Djoliba, Mali. A descendant of the Mali Empire founder Sundiata Keita, he is known for blending Mande music traditions with jazz, rhythm and blues, and other international styles to help pioneer the Afropop dance-music genre. His career in music began after he moved to Bamako in 1968, where he joined the Rail Band de Bamako, led by saxophonist Tidiani Koné. In 1973, he joined the group Les Ambassadeurs. Throughout his career, Keita found success in Europe as a prominent figure in world music.
In addition to his musical contributions, Keita is recognized for his work in acting, with 19 known credits listed in his filmography. He is the father of Nantenin Keita, a French athlete and double Paralympic champion. Despite facing early challenges, including rejection from his family due to his decision to pursue music against traditional caste expectations and difficulties entering the teaching profession, Keita established himself as a renowned international star. His professional activities continue to include live performances, such as headlining the Legends Night Concert in Harare.
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Career timeline
Full Filmography
21 titles- Salif Keïta - Festival de jazz de Leverkusen 2024 (2024) as Himself
- Africa Rising (2019) as Self - Musician (archive footage)
- Salif Keita: World Music Portrait (2004) as Self
- Salif Keita: World Music Portrait (2004) Music
- The Blues (2003) as Self
- Feel Like Going Home (2003) as Self
- September 11 (2002) Original Music Composer
- Genesis (1999) as Esau
- Vivement dimanche (1998) as Self
- Salif Keita & Les Ambassadeurs - Jazz Open à Stuttgart (1995) as Self
- The Golden Ball (1994) as Karim
- Voyage à Tombouctou (1994) Music
- The Lion Child (1993) as Griot
- The Lion Child (1993) Original Music Composer
- Red Hot + Blue: A Tribute to Cole Porter (1990) as Self
- One World, One Voice (1990) as Self
- Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute (1988) as Self
- Le monde est à vous (1987) as Self
- Yeelen (1987) Original Music Composer
- Victoires de la musique (1985) as Self
- Mosaïque (1976) as Self
Frequently Asked Questions
What movies or TV shows is Salif Keita best known for?
Salif Keita is widely recognized for notable roles and projects including Ed (2000), Genesis (1999), Vivement dimanche (1998), The Golden Ball (1994).
When and where was Salif Keita born?
Salif Keita was born on August 25, 1949 in Djoliba, Mali.
How many credits does Salif Keita have?
Salif Keita has accumulated over 21 film and television credits across a career spanning from 1976 to 2024.
What is Salif Keita's background in cinema and television?
Salif Keïta is a Malian singer and musician born on August 25, 1949, in Djoliba, Mali. A descendant of the Mali Empire founder Sundiata Keïta, he is known for blending Mande music traditions with jazz, rhythm and blues, and international styles to pioneer the Afropop genre. Keïta, who has albinism, originally aspired t...
Salif Keita by the numbers
Age in their best-rated roles
- The Golden Ball (1994) as Karim — aged about 44
- Genesis (1999) as Esau — aged about 49
- Vivement dimanche (1998) as Self — aged about 48
- Victoires de la musique (1985) as Self — aged about 35
- Le monde est à vous (1987) as Self — aged about 37
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