Fatoumata Diawara, whose North American summer tour comes to a close at the Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival in British Columbia this weekend, is the subject of a captivating feature profile on CNN's African Voices program. Diawara spoke with CNN prior to her recent tour stop at Yoshi's in San Francisco for an in-depth discussion of her life, from her early days in Mali to an acting career that led to world travel and her career in music and, as heard on her critically acclaimed debut album, Fatou, and her recent efforts in support of peace in Mali.

"From the moment she steps onto the stage," says CNN, "lighting up the concert hall with her radiant smile and striking flowing dress, to the very last notes of her energy-filled show, which finds everyone at their feet, it's easy to see why Fatoumata Diawara feels right at home while performing." See why in the African Voices profile, which you can watch, in three parts, below.

Diawara has been described as “the most beguiling talent to hit the world music scene in some time” by the Telegraph and a "spell-weaving new voice" by Mojo. Her album, Fatou, uses elements of jazz, pop, and funk along with her ancestral Wassoulou tradition. John Paul Jones, Toumani Diabate, and Tony Allen all make guest appearances. Uncut gives Fatou four stars; Pitchfork calls it "beguiling." The Washington Post says "her well-crafted songs are quietly powerful." To pick up a copy of Fatou on CD, MP3, and FLAC in North America, head to the Nonesuch Store, where CD orders include a download of the complete album at checkout.

Fatoumata Diawara returns to North America to tour again starting in January 2014. For details on the confirmed dates and tickets, visit nonesuch.com/on-tour.

Watch CNN's African Voices here: 

Part 1

Part 2

 Part 3