Sonia Konaté

Sonia Konaté

Sonia Konaté is a Franco-Malian guitarist, composer, and session musician whose artistry transcends borders and genres. Based in London since 2018, she has become a sought-after performer, sharing the stage with global icons such as Lizzo, Billy Ocean, Emeli Sandé, and Soweto Kinch. With a musical foundation rooted in jazz, NeoSoul, and the rhythmic traditions of West Africa, Sonia's work is an intricate tapestry of sound, reflecting both her heritage and contemporary influences.

Born in France and raised in the picturesque landscapes of Haute-Savoie, Sonia's musical journey began at the age of eight when she first picked up the guitar. Her formal education in jazz at the conservatoire in France laid the groundwork for her signature style—an expressive blend of intricate harmonies, soulful melodies, and West African textures.  Over the years, Sonia has performed at prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and toured extensively across Europe, the US, and Australia. Her contributions as a session musician have enriched the work of various artists, but her artistic identity finds its purest expression in her solo project.

In 2025, Sonia will unveil her debut EP, an introspective and evocative work that captures her evolution as an artist. The lead single, "21st," set for release on February 21st, serves as a poignant meditation on time, transformation, and the cyclical nature of life. Inspired by the World card in tarot, the track pays tribute to Sonia’s grandparents, offering a heartfelt reflection on acceptance and closure. Crafted in a former factory turned creative sanctuary in North London, the EP is a fusion of jazz, NeoSoul, and African influences, enriched by esoteric themes and abstract artistic inspirations.

The project boasts collaborations with esteemed musicians, including double bassist Jay Carter, whose organic touch adds depth to the sound. The EP’s refined sonic quality is further shaped by French producer Jason Del Campo (Festival de Cannes 2022, Les César 2024) and mastered by François Fanelli (Ibrahim Maalouf), ensuring an intimate yet polished listening experience.

Beyond her solo work, Sonia is deeply engaged in music education, producing online guitar courses and content to inspire the next generation of musicians. Her artistic influences span jazz legends like Wes Montgomery and Jim Hall, contemporary virtuosos like Isaiah Sharkey, and the rich traditions of West African masters such as Ali Farka Touré and Moriba Koïta. She also draws creative inspiration from abstract art, symbolism, and the literary works of Jodorowsky and Maya Angelou. 

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Why Vola ?

My Vola guitar(s)

I love Vola guitars for their versatility, especially the KJM and TNC models, which allow me to effortlessly adapt to any live or studio setting and find the perfect sound when composing my own music. Their lightweight and reliability give me the confidence to take them on tour around the world, knowing they won’t let me down. Most importantly, I’ve always found the Vola team easy to connect with and incredibly helpful, making the experience of working with them even more enjoyable.
Sonia Konaté is a Franco-Malian guitarist, composer, and session musician whose artistry transcends borders and genres.