Grammy-nominated musician Amadou Bagayoko, one-half of the celebrated Malian duo Amadou & Mariam, has died at the age of 70, the Malian government has confirmed.
In a statement aired on state television, the Ministry of Culture said it had "learned with concern of the passing of artist Amadou Bagayoko," calling him "a blind man who made his mark on the Malian and international scene."
Born in Bamako in 1954, Bagayoko began playing music at an early age. In the 1970s, he met his wife and long-time musical partner Mariam Doumbia at Bamako's Institute for Young Blind People. Together, they created a unique sound that blended traditional West African rhythms with rock, pop and funk influences.
Their 2004 breakthrough album Dimanche à Bamako, produced by Manu Chao, propelled them onto the global stage. Four years later Welcome to Mali was nominated for a Grammy for Best Contemporary World Music Album.
Their rise saw them open for Coldplay in 2009, perform at the Nobel Peace Prize concert honouring Barack Obama and play major international festivals including Glastonbury. They also composed the official anthem for the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
Tributes from fellow musicians and fans flooded social media over the weekend.
"Amadou! We'll always be together... with you wherever you go," wrote Manu Chao.
"I will never forget this friendship," said music legend Youssou N'Dour. "My thoughts are with my dear Mariam."
Source: Reuters
