Happy birthday! Ali Farka Touré turns 86 today

Ali Farka Touré is celebrating his 86th birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, he is one of the most acclaimed musicians of his generation.

Popular musician-singer Ali Farka Touré has always liked to keep a bit of himself hidden from view. At 86th birthday, he remains a man of many facets.

Touré, a cultural icon

Born Ali Ibrahim Touré in Kanau on October 31, 1939, his career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in Malian history. Touré's not just a great musician, he's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business man. At this point in his career, there seems to be little Ali Farka hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Ali Farka Touré as he promises more to come. After all, he's only 86.

Happy Birthday, Ali Farka, you're the best!

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