Artist

Tinariwen

1979-present

Tinariwen didn't begin as a band so much as a loose circle of friends playing guitars around campfires in the Sahara, singing in Tamashek about Tuareg grievances to whoever was listening, years before the group had a name or any ambition beyond being heard by their own community. Founders Ibrahim Ag Alhabib, Inteyeden Ag Ablil and Kheddou Ag Ossad were later joined by Mohammed Ag Itlale, known as Japonais, along with Alhassane Ag Touhami and Abdallah Ag Alhousseyni, forming what bassist Eyadou Ag Leche has called 'an open family of poets and musicians,' playing weddings and parties long before they played anything resembling a concert.

The full story is in Mali Desert Blues.

At a glance

Active
1979–present
From
Southern Algeria/northern Mali (Azawad region)
Records in the issues
5 (2001–2023), 1 of them a Start here pick
Original labels
Triban Union, V2 and Wedge
Listening guide track
“Cler Achel”

Listen

In the Mali Desert Blues listening guide: “Cler Achel”

In the issues

  • Mali Desert Blues
    Principal · 1968-present · Members

    Mali Desert Blues is a genre from Mali, Algeria, Niger, Libya (Sahara/Sahel region), 1968–present. Its principal artists include Ali Farka Touré, Tinariwen and Ibrahim Ag Alhabib. This issue covers 10 essential albums and 14 dated events.

Records