The Kouyate family is a dynasty of jelis (griots) that is native to West Africa.
It has been prominent since the 13th century, when its founder took part in the founding of the Mali Empire.
According to the Epic of Sundiata, Balla Fasséké was assigned to serve as a jeli by King Nare Maghann Konate to his son Prince Sundiata Keita in the latter's youth.
He then went on to aid the prince in his subsequent quest to liberate his homeland from the despotic rule of the Sosso monarch King Soumaoro Kantè.
[4] Kouyates in particular have served as jelis for the Keita dynasty since the 13th century.