Kan means voice of in the Malinke language of West Africa's ancient Manding empire. With 3 of its 5 members born in the Manding region and the remaining two having studied percussions extensively there, the Cape Town-based West African percussion group known as Manding Kan gives an energetic, uplifting and truly authentic voice to the rich Manding traditions.

The group is led by Malian djembe prodigy Ladji Aboubacar Kante, who comes from a long line of musicians and hgas a track record of playing with world music giants sucj as Salif Keita, Roka Traore and Toumani Diabate.

Rooted in tradition, the group offers modern interpretations and original compositions. The group's repertoire also includes a well-crafted combination of guitar, balafon (xylophone), vocals and dance, adding dynamism and originality to suit a variety of performance atmospheres. A Pan-African celebration of sound, movement and heart... Manding Kan truly embodies the spirit and diversity of today's South Africa!

Ladji Aboubacar Kante

Born in Ivory Coast and raised in a family of successful musicians (playing kora, balafon, djembe and guitar) with both parents, Issouf Kante & Mananfin Sylla, as professional, traditional “griots” (vocalists), Ladji began playing djembe & doundoun (West African hand drums) at the age of 9. In addition to following his parents from one traditional ceremony to another Ladji to carefully observe the masters of his craft, Ladji also studied and played with world-famous master-drummers-Soungalo Coulibaly and Adama Drame to name a few.

Before arriving in South Africa in 2007 Ladji was based in Bamako, Mali. There he performed with world music giant Salif Keita, recorded with Europe´s favourite Malian vocalist, Rokia Traore, opened for internationally-acclaimed Baaba Maal, and often joined world-renowned Kora player, Toumani Diabate. As the leader of Manding Kan, Ladji sets the scene alight with a passion, precision and powerful presence guaranteed to leave you awe-struck and cheering for more.