Morikeba Kouyate, from Senegal, West Africa, was born a Jali, a musical historian whose family lineage goes back 700 years.  His job in life is to pass on the stories and history of his family and culture through music and song. This is what he does and this is his gift to the world. Before Covid19 he was performing throughout the States and regularly performing at Disney World in an African-themed section called Harambe Market where he has inspired and educated millions of visitors over the years. He is currently living in Florida.

A Jali earns a living from fulfilling their duties as a musician and story teller – this is what they have done for 700 years.  Due to Covid19, Morikeba is currently not able to fulfill his calling. He is out of work and the world is not able to receive the beauty of his gift.  To address this problem, he will continue his mission online.

In the 20 years that I have known Morikeba, he has always given to others without any expectation of return. The joy and kindness in his heart can always be felt through his music, stories and conversations.

Morikeba has always been able to earn a living – until now. His needs are quite modest and he is asking for very little: only $900 a month to cover his most basic living expenses of rent, food and utilities.  Our first goal will be 3 months of living expenses at $2700.  Every penny donated will go directly to Morikeba Kouyate, his funds are depleted and he has bills due now. He will be at home sharing his new unrecorded music and writing new songs about our current situation, including Covid19.  We will post his videos here and on YouTube, free for anyone to view.  Please show your support and help him continue to share his gifts and what he was put on earth to do.

To start things off, I am sharing a video from a 2011 recording session at Gary Gordon's studio in Southern Illinois, never seen by anyone other than myself.  Morikeba is at home working on brand new material for this page, we will update soon and regularly so please keep checking in and share!