“Protégé of Ali Farka Toure, singer, composer and guitarist Afel Bocoum steps out of the shadows… with mesmerising vocals… reflecting the vast horizons, swirling colours and timelessness of the river Niger.” – The Guardian.
Africa Oyé have teamed up with the Liverpool Philharmonic and Mellowtone to bring the acclaimed Afel Bocoum to the city in January 2026 for what’s set to be a spectacular show to start the year.
For over three decades, Afel Bocoum stood alongside Mali’s late great desert blues pioneer Ali Farka Touré as a guardian of Mali’s Niger River musical soul. After Touré’s mentorship, Bocoum launched his solo career with the 1999 debut ‘Alkibar’.
This album earned him international recognition, leading to a collaboration with executive producer Damon Albarn and World Circuit artistic director Steve Gold, creating Bocoum’s second album Lindé.
“Bocoum’s voice as ‘one of the treasures of Mali’.” – Damon Albarn (via Uncut)
“Afel Bocoum’s consoling voice is a call for hope, unity, and togetherness. He offers us light and joy, distilling an energy that gives us goosebumps.” – Rolling Stone France
Bocoum previously played the Africa Oyé Festival itself back in 2006 and Paul Duhaney, Artistic Director of the charity behind the festival, says his return to the city is long overdue:
“Afel was an important member of the iconic Ali Farka Touré’s band but has long stepped out of his mentor’s shadow to become a legendary musician in his own right. His set at one of our early Sefton Park festivals went down a storm and we can’t wait to welcome him back to Liverpool next year.”
Afel Bocoum plays the Liverpool Philharmonic Music Room on Tuesday 20th January 2026.
Tickets are available now via the venue’s website: https://www.liverpoolphil.com/whats-on/contemporary-music/afel-bocoum/9718
Tuesday 20th January 2026
Doors 7pm / Concert 8pm
Liverpool Philharmonic Music Room
