A Tribute to Toumani Diabaté

Get ready for an unforgettable night of African music and culture as PBS pays tribute to the legendary kora maestro, Toumani Diabaté. This unique event, presented by ALWAYS LIVE, PBS 106.7FM and renowned curator Stani Goma, will take place at the iconic Croxton Bandroom on 6th December 2024 - exclusive to Victoria.

Tickets are $35 for PBS Members, $45 for Future PBS Members (inc. booking fees) 

Toumani Diabaté, a world-renowned Malian musician and master of the kora, has inspired countless artists with his extraordinary talent and dedication to preserving the rich musical heritage of West Africa. This special concert is a homage to his legacy, showcasing the beauty and power of African music through the voices and instruments of Melbourne’s finest African musicians.  

Featuring The Mande Spirit, a collective of Melbourne-based griots from Mali, Gambia, and Guinea, formed by Stani Goma. They will take the audience on a journey through the traditional and contemporary sounds of West Africa, paying tribute to Diabaté’s influence with mesmerizing kora performances, vibrant rhythms, and soulful melodies.  

Joining them is Ajak Kwai, the South Sudanese singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice and messages of hope, peace, and unity. Her Afrobeat-infused sound has captivated audiences around Australia, blending traditional African rhythms with contemporary styles. Ajak is also the host of PBS program, Come Together, every Monday afternoon from 1pm-3pm. 

Rounding out the lineup is The Afrobiotics, a high-energy Afrobeat band that fuses African rhythms with modern grooves, bringing a danceable energy to the stage. Their infectious beats and tight performances will get the crowd moving and ensure a night full of celebration.  

The night will be stitched together by DJ sets from Kgomotso Sekhu. Born in Pretoria, Kgomotso is a multidisciplinary artist with a passion for filmmaking, African education, cultural exchange and community development.  

This event is part of ALWAYS LIVE - a 17-day state-wide celebration of contemporary live music supported by the Victorian Government through Visit Victoria - and is proudly supported by PBS 106.7FM, Naarm/Melbourne’s community radio station dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and music. 

PBS is proud to be teaming up with ALWAYS LIVE to help raise funds for their 2024 charity partner Support Act. This means that $1 from each ticket sold will be going directly to Support Act and the amazing work they do with music workers, artists and crew. 

Don’t miss this extraordinary night of music, culture, and celebration as we honour one of Africa’s greatest musicians, Toumani Diabaté.  

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander folk are welcome for free – please email kurt@pbsfm.org.au for more info. 

Accessibility info for The Croxton can be found at http://thecroxton.com.au/faq 

This event takes place on the land of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples and the extended clans of the Kulin Nation. We recognise and celebrate their connection to songlines and Country, ceremony and story, and pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past and present. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.