Jacob Salem, a unique musician from Burkina Faso, has been composing and performing since 1982. Singing primarily in Mooré, the language of his Mossi heritage, he created a genre called  “Warwarba” or Mossi Rock, blending the energetic rhythms of traditional Warba with rock music. Over the years, he has collaborated with national and international artists, including Thierry Obadia, Bruno Milonace (arranger for Michel Sardou and Vanessa Paradis), and the groups Yapa and Jeremy.

Jacob’s music is deeply inspired by the melodies and rhythms of the Royal Court of the Moro Naaba, where he grew up, and where sacred and celebratory music were part of life. His rich, poetic lyrics often address social themes like colonization, violence, and the lives of kings and commoners. Jacob’s ability to mix traditional African rhythms with modern rock gives his sound a unique edge that resonates across cultures.

His latest album, “Nanluli,” produced with Swiss-English guitarist André Somkieta Courbat, merges his African roots with blues-rock influences, offering a fresh, captivating sound. Jacob Salem is a powerful voice in the African music scene, blending tradition with modernity in a timeless and exciting way.

Jacob Salem et Somkieta are available for performances in Western Europe from September 2024 until September 2026.