Suntou Susso and The Gambian Superstars – ‘The Path of a Griot Album Tour Autumn, 2026’ coming to The Apex

Internationally renowned kora player Suntou Susso and his band, The Gambian Superstars, (pictured above) embark on special series of concerts this autumn, calling into Bury St Edmunds on Sunday, November 1.

Blending kora, balafon, percussion, drums, bass, keys and saxophone, the outfit’s electrifying sound fuses Mandinka heritage with funk and jazz, creating a celebration of West African music.

The programme focuses on songs and music from Susso’s critically acclaimed and award-winning album, “Jaliya Silokang – The Path of a Griot”.

For over 700 years, Griots have served as peacekeepers, poets and oral historians, preserving and passing on cultural memory through music and song.

Born into a revered lineage of Gambian Griots, Suntou Susso is both a guardian of the tradition and an innovator of its future.

Rooted in the ancient rhythms and spiritual depth of his heritage, his music is a bridge between worlds.

Susso explains” “As a young Griot, I wish to help make positive changes, to inspire young people, and protect the planet we live on.

“These shows are more than just musical performances; they are journeys into heritage, unity, belonging, ecology, and the dreams of ancestors and generations yet to come.”

Susso’s principal instrument, the kora, is a 22-string harp-lute from West Africa.

He comes from a celebrated lineage which includes some of the world’s most renowned West African artists, Seckou Keita, Solo Cissokho, and Mamadou Susso.

A charismatic and versatile performer, Susso and his band’s music moves from kora-led melodies and balafon patterns to deep rhythmic grooves and ensemble passages, blending West African folk roots with elements of funk and jazz.

Describing what his UK tour means for him, Susso says: “Touring with The Gambian Superstars, who are so much a part of my musical landscape, has been a big dream of mine for a long, long time. I am very excited to share the beautiful music and songs with new audiences.”

Suntou Susso and The Gambian Superstars will be at The Apex, in Bury St Edmunds, on Sunday, November 1, at 7.30pm.

See www.theapex.co.uk or ring 01284 758000 for more information or to book tickets.