Wassoulou originated in the Wassoulou region spanning Mali, Guinea, and Ivory Coast, emerging as a distinct genre in the 1970s-80s. The genre fuses traditional West African rhythms with modern influences including jazz and blues, featuring the kamelen ngoni, karignan, and djembe. Oumou Sangaré popularized Wassoulou internationally, addressing women's rights and social issues through powerful vocals and lively, danceable rhythms that celebrate Wassoulou cultural heritage.
