Amidst the airwaves of Franceinfo's revered 'La Playlist,' Matteu Maestracci introduces listeners to a deeply emotional tribute to one of music's beloved duos, the Franco-Malian pair Amadou and Mariam. Their latest album, 'L'Amour Ă  la folie,' arrives as a poignant testament to their enduring love and musical legacy, only a few months after the untimely demise of Amadou Bagayoko, who passed away on April 4th at the age of 70.

"L'Amour Ă  la folie" album cover of Amadou and Mariam "L'Amour Ă  la folie" new album by Amadou and Mariam (October 2025) (BECAUSE MUSIC/ Nonsuch Records)

Emotionally charged, this album was finalized just days before Amadou’s death, lending an ethereal resonance to tracks like 'Bienvenue à la maison.' The story of Amadou and Mariam is well-trodden—two blind musicians destined to meet in the heart of Bamako in 1976, who would later rise to international fame with the acclaimed 2005 album 'Dimanche à Bamako.' Their story captivated audiences far and wide, most recently featuring in the closing ceremony of the Paris Paralympic Games.

Though posthumously released, 'L'Amour Ă  la folie' encapsulates everything that made Amadou and Mariam a household name. The album embraces the couple's unique blend of rich blues guitars and euphoric dance rhythms. Producer Pierre Juarez embodies their shared vision, expressing how Amadou longed for the guitars to tell their story while Mariam envisioned music that compelled movement and celebration.

This release sees the duo stripping back, working with fewer collaborators than in previous projects. Known for their past collaborations with artists like Matthieu Chedid in the Lamomali project, fans are treated to the soulful sounds of Congolese artist Fally Ipupa on the compelling track 'Sonfo.'

'L'Amour à la folie' is not merely an echo of what once was; it is a testament to a legacy that continues to inspire. Each track imbues the listener with a sense of continuity and transition, celebrating the duo’s journey through music amidst personal loss.

With 'L'Amour Ă  la folie,' Amadou and Mariam not only offer a heartfelt farewell but also invite a celebration of shared music and memories, leaving a lasting imprint on the heart of their listeners worldwide.