By Bakary Ceesay
Gambian griot artist Neneh Jali Suso is set to release a new Extended Play (EP) titled Brikama in June, a project dedicated to highlighting the contributions and responsibilities of women in society.
The EP, which features her Jali Manding Band, is produced by Dawda Camara at Afro Beat Studio. It marks a shift from the traditional griot focus on praising kings and warriors, instead centering on women’s roles in community life.
Suso, heir to a renowned West African griot lineage and daughter of the late kora musician Foday Musa Suso, said the project seeks to address gaps in historical recognition of women.
“We sing of kings and warriors, but women have not been celebrated enough,” she said.
The launch concert is scheduled for June 6, 2026, at the Brikama Boxba. It will feature live performances by Neneh Jali Suso and the Manding Band, with guest appearances by Barhama Cham and Jali Aunty Jobarteh.
Born into one of West Africa’s most respected musical families, Suso began her professional career in 2008 and has performed widely across The Gambia, Mali, and Senegal. Her previous works include Badiyaa, Jawyaa, and Jiko, which combine social commentary with griot storytelling traditions.
The EP Brikama draws its name from a town in The Gambia’s Western Region and focuses on themes of women’s labour, leadership, resilience, and their role in sustaining community life.
Suso said she intends to expand her international presence through cross-genre collaborations and mentorship of young artists, while preserving the integrity of the griot tradition.
“My father took the kora to the world. My mother kept our songs true. My path is to do both,” she said.
