Malian musician Amadou Bagayoko, one-half of the acclaimed music duo Amadou & Mariam, has passed away at the age of 70 following an illness. This tribute honors the Grammy-nominated, blind musician and his extensive musical legacy.
Amadou, along with his wife Mariam Doumbia, formed an influential group known for their unique fusion of traditional Malian music with rock guitar sounds and Western blues. Their music has garnered a global audience and sold millions of albums worldwide.
Their musical journey began when they met at the Institute for the Young Blind in the Malian capital, Bamako. Together, they composed the official song for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany and performed at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Youssouf Fadiga, Amadou’s son-in-law, confirmed that he had been battling an illness for some time. According to their France-based manager, Yannick Tardy, Amadou was treated at a clinic due to fatigue but unfortunately passed away later that day.
Malian Culture Minister, Mamou Daffé, expressed deep sadness at the news of the musician’s death.
Amadou and Mariam discovered their shared love for music in 1976 and began touring together in the 1980s, blending traditional African instruments with the music influences from their youth. They became advocates for raising awareness about the challenges faced by those living with blindness and disabilities.
In 2004, their album “Dimanche à Bamako” rose to international success, featuring the popular title track. Amadou and Mariam went on to become one of Africa’s most successful musical acts, performing alongside renowned artists like Damon Albarn, and each member of Pink Floyd, including their childhood idol, David Gilmour.
They have performed at prestigious festivals such as Glastonbury, shared stages with bands like Coldplay and U2, and even played for former US President Barack Obama.
During a 2024 interview with AFP, Amadou recounted a memorable encounter with Barack Obama, who appreciated their music. The duo’s awards include a Grammy nomination in 2010, BBC Radio awards, and France’s Victoires de la Musique.
Amadou Bagayoko leaves behind three children, ensuring the continuation of his musical legacy.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/music/2025/apr/05/amadou-bagayoko-of-music-duo-amadou-and-mariam-dies-aged-70
