With Orchestra Baobab from 1974 until 1985, Mountaga Koite was only 15 years old when he started playing professionally.



Initially he played the Toumba (an African drum), but was encouraged to play a full kit on joining Orchestra Baobab. When the group dissolved, Mountaga continued playing at a high level and in 1999 was awarded the prestigious Ordre National Du Lion for his services to music.



When Orchestra Boabab regrouped Mountaga Koite returned on drums and congas. The combo also features Moijssa 'Balla' Sidibe on timbales.