Ginton Reimagines African Classic "Kalabancoro" with GRAMMY Icons Richard Bona and Salif Keita

Dutch house producer and guitarist Ginton is set to release his deeply personal reimagining of "Kalabancoro," the iconic African anthem originally recorded by GRAMMY-nominated legends Richard Bona and Salif Keita in 2003. The modern version, dropping June 20th via Decca Records (Universal Music), represents both a tribute to Ginton's musical heroes and a bridge between generations of African musical excellence.

A Song Born from Conflict, Renewed for Today

The original "Kalabancoro" emerged during a tumultuous period of war and unrest, crafted to give voice to those suffering in silence. More than two decades later, Ginton's interpretation aims to honor that powerful message while breathing contemporary energy into the timeless composition. The track features the untouched, soul-stirring vocals of both Richard Bona and Salif Keita, whose combined seven GRAMMY nominations and one win speak to their enduring influence on world music.

" I've looked up to Richard Bona for as long as I can remember, Ginton reflects. As a young, aspiring musician, his bass playing, musicality, and the emotion he pours into every note made a huge impact on me. So when I was invited by the label to remix a track from a selection of legendary African artists, and I saw Richard's name on the list - I didn't have to think twice. It was an immediate 'yes'."

The producer's connection to the material runs even deeper." When I saw that the track was Kalabancoro, I got goosebumps. The original song, released in 1998, features the incredible Salif Keita - another icon whose voice carries so much depth and soul. 'Kalabancoro' was written during a time of war and unrest, with the intention of giving a face and voice to the people who were suffering in silence. That message, that spirit, still feels incredibly relevant today."

From Conservatory to Drake Collaborations

Ginton's journey to this moment began at Rotterdam's prestigious Conservatorium, where he immersed himself in jazz guitar while drawing inspiration from legends like Santana, Jimi Hendrix, and The Wailers. This classical foundation would prove instrumental in his later success producing for some of the world's biggest artists.

The breakthrough came with his co-production work on Drake's "Tie That Binds" from the certified platinum, Billboard #1 album "Honestly, Nevermind." This high-profile collaboration opened doors to work with Lojay, Rico Nasty, and Ape Drums of Major Lazer, while also contributing to Gordo's "Candid Zone" featuring Leon Bridges on the "Diamante" album, which peaked at #3 on Billboard's Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart.

His viral collaboration with Stonebwoy, "JEJEREJE," became a TikTok sensation with over 300 million views and reached #1 on Shazam's Global Worldwide Chart, demonstrating his ability to create music that resonates across cultures and platforms.

A Full-Circle Moment

For Ginton, working on "Kalabancoro" represented more than just another remix project.

"I wanted to honor that message and emotion while also bringing the track into the now. I didn't want to 'flip' it just for the sake of a remix. My goal was to breathe new energy into it without losing its essence. Obviously, I kept the vocals untouched as they're absolutely timeless."

The creative process flowed naturally. "The bones of the track came together in about an hour. That's how right it felt. It just flowed." But the true highlight came when Ginton met his hero in person after Richard Bona's show in Amsterdam. "We talked about music, staying inspired, touring life, and just the heart behind creating. Sitting across from someone who shaped so much of my musical path—and sharing this project with him - was surreal. It felt like a full-circle moment. A dream I didn't even know was possible when I was starting out."

Building Bridges Through Music

Through his label imprint Woody Trees, Ginton has cultivated a roster that reflects his commitment to cross-cultural collaboration, housing partnerships with industry leaders like MoBlack, Francis Mercier, Maz, and Antdot, alongside Afro Pop stars Tekno and Mr. Eazi. This approach to bridging musical worlds finds its most meaningful expression in "Kalabancoro."

"This project means the world to me," Ginton concludes. "It's a tribute, a thank you, and a conversation with the voices that paved the way - while adding my own to the mix."

The reimagined "Kalabancoro" will be available on all major streaming platforms June 20th via Decca Records (Universal Music), offering listeners both a window into African musical heritage and a glimpse of how contemporary producers can honor the past while creating something entirely new.