
Maâlem Mahmoud Guinia
Maâlem Mahmoud Guinia, born in 1951 in the coastal city of Essaouira, emerged as one of the most influential figures in Gnawa music. His journey in this musical tradition began at the very young age of 12 when he first picked up the Guembri. Guinea’s early initiation into the world of Gnawa was not merely a musical pursuit but a deep dive into a centuries-old spiritual and cultural heritage. By the time he reached 20, Mahmoud Guinia had already established himself as a performer in Lila ceremonies. These early experiences