Often referred to as ‘The Hendrix of the Sahara’, Vieux Farka Touré was born in Niafunké, Mali in 1981. He is the son of legendary Malian guitar player Ali Farka Touré, who died in 2006.
Vieux’s live performances are nothing short of breathtaking – highly energised, and dazzling crowds with his speed and dexterity on the guitar, and his palpable charisma.
Join us at the Mullumbimby Civic Memorial Hall for an unforgettable musical experience with Vieux Farka Touré, son of the late legendary Malian guitar player Ali Farka Touré.
How do you get your guitar to sound like that?
There are two things – the first is the picking style that I use which is based on traditional style of northern Mali. I play the low string repetitively with my thumb. This acts like a bass guitar. Then on top I will solo all with my index finger. I only use these two fingers, the thumb and the index finger, to play the guitar. Also responsible for my sound is the Roland Jazz Chorus amplifier. I always use this amplifier and it is its strong chorus sound that gives me my own sound on the guitar, in combination with my style of finger picking.
Does music have a big role in Malian culture?
Yes of course! Music is the probably the most important part of Malian culture. Without music, we are dead. It is our deepest pride. For every occasion and at all times in Mali there is music.
When did you begin playing the guitar?
People do not believe this, but I actually began to play the guitar later in my life, when I was twenty years old. I started in music as a drummer and calabash player. I did not start guitar until I was in university.
Who has been the most influential musician to you?
Well, my father Ali Farka Toure of course. Since my birth I have been looking up to him to follow his example. But there are others who have had a very big influence on me, such as Toumani Diabate, who is like my godfather. He was the one who mentored me early in my career.
What musical styles you like to listen to when you’re not playing?
I am a big fan of the blues and of traditional music from across the Sahel. There is a style of music in Mali that is traditional for the hunters – very simple, very profound. I love to relax and listen to music like this.
How was it to growing up with such a well-known and -loved musician as a father?
Well it was an extraordinary blessing for me, of course. To be the son of Ali is a great pride for me because Ali was such an exemplary person and musician. Of course there is also a lot of pressure because people will always compare me to him and in private I am expected to provide for the family the same way that he did. A lot, a lot of pressure. But I got my talent from him and my mission in music and in life, and these are blessings that I would not trade for anything.
Do you have any words of wisdom for young people of today?
Young people should pay attention to their history and their culture because without this knowledge you cannot realise your full potential. You must understand where you come from in order to have the knowledge of where to go and the power to get there. I think today young people are very capable but many do not pay attention to their roots and this makes them lost souls in the world.
What should we expect for your local show?
A big dance party, I hope! I love to bring a lot of energy and make people smile and dance. This is what I hope for at every show.
Mullumbimby Civic Hall on Thursday, 7.30pm. Show details and tickets at www.redsquaremusic.com.au.
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