BIOGRAPHY

Originally from Hungary but fascinated by the Malian griot tradition, the blond musician knew she had to learn this African harp, whose history can be traced back thousands of years. She was destined to play the kora. Already a skilled violin player, she traded in her first instrument for her new love after a formative trip to Burkino Faso, where she discovered the kora and its powerful influence dating back to the 13th century. It’s a masculine tradition, which she venerates and respects in all its subtleties. This discovery reached a climax in Paris, where she met renowned Malian, Toumani Diabaté, who invited her to Bamako to delve deeper into the legendary art. She trained under the master kora player for seven years and the Malian capital adopted the young white musician who found there the ideal atmosphere in which to perform her art, a niche belonging to her idols, Habib Koité and the Kouyaté and Sissoko families, who have honoured her with their collaboration on “Before You,” featured on her latest album released last spring.

As a singer-songwriter, Sophie Lukacs reveals her own musicality with a folk-style voice. Singing in English, she brings an unhurried Western pop sound well suited to the kora, a delight for the ears of those inclined towards these soft impulses bordering on reverie. The nymph from Budapest nurtures the vital sources through love and empathy. Her gentleness weaves through her audience like a hymn. Her recent release, “Too Many Times,” reveals her simple lifestyle, free of frills, just like the humble griot she has become. Pure enchantment that caresses the days and nights, a cascade of water from the highest Mande peaks.