Kampti: Musician Hien Zephyrin, better known as Blacky, the King of Biir, celebrated his 40-year musical career on Saturday, March 7, 2026, in Kampti with a free concert organized at the Baobab maquis in front of more than 300 spectators.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Blacky, an emblematic voice of Djoro music in the Southwest of Burkina Faso, received support and tributes from numerous artists from Ivory Coast and various localities within Burkina Faso, such as Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso, Gaoua, and Kampti. These artists gathered to honor a career that has significantly influenced the regional music scene.
Born in 1955 in Kampti, in the province of Poni, Blacky has emerged as a pivotal figure in local music over the decades. Coming from a family deeply rooted in musical traditions, he developed an early passion for the guitar and singing, eventually becoming a talented author, composer, performer, and guitarist. His repertoire, performed in Lobiri, Dioula, and French, reflects the social realities and cultural traditions of the Djoro people.
Beyond his artistic contributions, Blacky has played a vital role in shaping the musical landscape of the region. He became the conductor of "Le Nobiel du Poni" in 1986 and later led the "Walkoye Massako" orchestra of Kampti-Loropeni, mentoring many young artists. His career includes notable performances at National Culture Week (NCW), with achievements such as a 3rd place finish in the orchestra category in 1984 at the SNC of Gaoua and a 1st place victory in 1988 at the SNC of Koudougou-Reo.
Throughout his career, Blacky has performed nearly 350 concerts and 246 events across Burkina Faso, alongside international performances that have helped promote Djoro music beyond national borders. His discography includes two albums released in 2010 and 2017, and participation in a collective album for the national festivities of December 2017.
In recognition of his cultural contributions, Blacky was honored by the Burkinabe nation in 2014 as a Knight of the Order of Merit for Arts, Letters and Communication, with the clasp "Music and Dance." As a member of the Burkinabe Copyright Office since 1988, Blacky continues to inspire the younger generation as an artistic reference.
From his native Walkoye, Blacky remains a custodian of Djoro culture, celebrating his legacy through his songs and performances. The 40-year career celebration in Kampti was a cultural gathering that honored an artist whose name is synonymous with the authenticity and artistic pride of Djoro music in Burkina Faso.