An exciting new hip-hop trio from Bamako, Mali, SMOD is led by Sam Bagoyoko — the guitar-playing son of the celebrated Malian couple Amadou & Mariam — who’s joined by rappers Ousco and Donsky.

They were discovered by producer (and world-music star) Manu Chao when he was producing the groundbreaking “Dimanche a Bamako” for Bagoyoko’s parents a few years back. Chao returned to Bamako last year to add his signature sound to this young group’s self-titled debut, which combines clever and hard-hitting political rap with appealing African guitar lines.

The group SMOD was born in 2000, created by Sam, Mouzy, Ousco and Donski.

In 2002, with the help of Amadou&Mariam´s manager, they edited their first album, Dunia Kuntala (the course of life). The album was well received in Mali and the group toured throughout the country, giving concerts and appearing at most Malian Festivals including: Craven Tour with Magic System, Tata Pound, Kibaru….

In 2004 they released their second album, ‘Ta I Tola’, with the collaboration of Amadou & Mariam, Manu Chao, King Massassi and Kisto Dem. SMOD was the first rap group in Mali to receive a golden record for their song “Politic Amagni” ( The police are not good), a piece of their album with Amadou & Mariam “Beau dimanche à Bamako”.

In 2010 they released their single 'Ca Chante'. A bomb in the music world and ready to take over the world with this one! Watch their video right here!