In The Heart of The Moon-Ali Farka Toure 1949-2006

Malian Guitar Legend Ali Farka Toure Dies at 67

"One of the most internationally successful West African musicians of the '90s, Ali Farka Toure was described as "the African John Lee Hooker" so many times that it probably began to grate on both Toure's and Hooker's nerves. There is a lot of truth to the comparison, however, and it isn't exactly an insult. The guitarist, who also plays other instruments such as calabash and bongos, shares with Hooker a predilection for low-pitched vocals and mid-tempo, foot-stomping rhythms, often playing with minimal accompaniment. Toure died on March 7, 2006 from the bone cancer which he had been battling for years; however, he was able to complete one last album before passing". by Richie Unterberger