JUST IN: African music legend Mory Kante dies at 70

African music icon, Mory Kante born 29 March 1950, has died at the age of 70, MyNigeria.com reports.

The legendary instrumentalist and vocalist, credited for exposing African music to audiences across the world, dies in Guinea.

President Alpha Conde confirmed in a tweet of May 22. Conde described the death as a loss for the African culture. He added that Mory had led an exceptional, exemplary life which was a source of pride.

The Malian presidency said in a social media post that President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita salutes an accomplished artist and a symbol of integration between the peoples of Guinea and Mali.

“He offers his deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased as well as to President Alpha Condé,” the statement added.

The late singer made his way with his African music with hits like Yeke Yeke, which reached number-one in Belgium, Finland, the Netherlands, and Spain.

The album it came from, Akwaba Beach, was the best-selling African record of its time.

Africa News/BBC