Gambia's most celebrated and renowned international kora maestro, Jaliba Kuyateh, has spoken positively about his 2013 calendar of activities for his Kumareh Band, while also soliciting support from the general public to launch his biography authored by a well known Gambian writer, Dr. Seedy Drammeh.

Dr Seedy Drammeh's book on Jaliba Kuyateh is published alongside two others entitled; "Plight of office drivers, and "Roles and responsibilities of human resources professionals".

Speaking in an exclusive interview with this reporter at his Brikama residence, the renowned kora maestro who has carved a niche for himself for blending traditional and modern music to create what many refer to as 'kora pop', applauded Dr Drammeh for the good initiative of writing his biography.

"It will go down in history that I have left a legacy that will be remembered. Thus, publishing a book on me will make things easy for those people in their findings; it will also expose me more," the visibly humbled international star said: "I only wish that the book is embraced by everyone and even included in the school curriculum so that future generations can learn about the great people of the land and their endeavours," he added.

New plans for the band

Asked about what new plans he has for the year 2013, the kora genius said that the band will continue to hold concerts andwill produce new releases before gettingonce again intointernational activities. He enthusiastically disclosed to the Daily Observer his new United States promoters that are working to further shape his image.

He further disclosed that his 2013 tour of the United Statesis currently being planned, while expressing optimism for successful international concerts. "There are also plans for me to be featured on the Opra Winfrey show," he stated, noting that all these developments around his band goes to show how prepared they are to further go international.