Fatoumata Diawara

Fatoumata Diawara Fatoumata Diawara (born May 1, 1982) is a Malian singer-songwriter, guitarist and actress. She is best known for her music, which blends traditional Malian music with elements of blues, jazz, and soul. Diawara was born in Abdijan, Côte d'Ivoire, to Malian parents. She began singing at an early age, and moved to Paris at the age of 19 to pursue a career in music. In 2007, she released her debut album, "Fatou", which was critically acclaimed. She has since released three more albums, "Kanou" (2011), "Fenfo" (2018), and "Les Destinées Brisées" (2022).

Diawara's music has been described as "powerful" and "soulful", and she has been praised for her unique vocal style and her ability to blend different musical genres. She has toured extensively throughout Europe, North America, and Africa, and has performed at numerous festivals, including the Glastonbury Festival, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, and the Montreux Jazz Festival. Diawara has also appeared in several films, including "Timbuktu" (2014), which won the César Award for Best Film.

In addition to her music career, Diawara is also a vocal advocate for human rights and social justice. She is a member of the board of directors of Oxfam France, and she has spoken out against violence against women and children, and on issues such as forced marriage and female genital mutilation. Diawara has also been a vocal advocate for peace and reconciliation in Mali.

Awards and Recognition Diawara has received numerous awards and recognition for her music and activism. In 2018, she won the Songlines Music Award for Best African Artist, and in 2020, she was awarded the Victoire de la Musique for Best World Music Album. Diawara has also been nominated for two Grammy Awards, and she was awarded the prestigious Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government in 2016.

Diawara is a powerful and inspiring artist who uses her music to speak out against injustice and to promote peace and reconciliation. She is a role model for women and girls around the world, and her music continues to touch the lives of people all over the globe.