A giant of the West-African music scene, and a dear friend of Oslo World, returns to Oslo in 2026.
Only on rare occasions do we book an artist outside of week 44. The last, and only, time was Caetano Veloso in 2023 – but when Fatoumata Diawara was available this spring, we had to go for it. Anyone who’s seen her in concert, will know why. She is a standout performer. Her first visit to Oslo World as a solo artist was back in 2012. Since then, she has returned several times. The last time she was here, she became the first ever female African artist to do a solo concert at the Norwegian Opera House in Bjørvika, where she performed her project Maliba. A night to be remembered, for sure - but to see her do her thing before a standing, dancing audience is something else entirely. She will turn Sentrum Scene on its head.
Fatoumata Diawara is many things. A role model who speaks out on women’s issues, and who furthers the cause of her home country, Mali. She is an unforgettable stage personality, who delivers both large and intimate musical moments. A guitar virtuoso and a singer of rare format. She has done backing vocals for Oumou Sangaré (among other places at Oslo World, before she made her solo debut), and she has cooperated with everyone from Bobby Womack to Damon Albarn. She has also worked as an actor - most notably, perhaps, in the Oscar nominated film Timbuktu from 2014.
Diawara primarily sings in Bambara, her mother tongue. Her musical curiosity is endless. Her latest release, London Ko, spans continents and several musical styles. Her sound is more eclectic, and electronic than ever. The album also sees her reuniting with Damon Albarn, as well as sharing moments with Angie Stone, Roberto Fonseca, M.Anifest and Yemi Alade.
It’s a career highlight. This spring, Oslo World are delighted to welcome back one of our favorite artists.
Lineup:
Fatoumata Diawara - lead vocal/lead guitar
Jurandir Da Silva Santana - guitar
Juan Finger - bass
William Ombe Monkama - drums
Fernando Javier Tejero Velez - keyboards
