In the rich tapestry of Moroccan music, few threads shine as brightly as that of Maâlem Hamid El Kasri. Born in 1961 in the northern Moroccan city of Ksar El Kebir, El Kasri’s life has been a remarkable journey through the heart of Gnawa music, a journey that has taken him from local ceremonies to international stages. His last name is an artist name meaning “from Ksar El Kebir”.
Gnawa music is not just a genre; it is a cultural expression that encompasses a rich history and deep spiritual significance. The sound of the guembri, a three-stringed lute, alongside the percussive beats of the krakebs, resonates with the heartbeat of Morocco itself. This music is often associated with healing ceremonies, known as ‘lila’, which are aimed at connecting the listener with the spiritual world.
The formal training El Kasri received laid the groundwork for his future success. His teachers instilled in him not only the technical skills necessary to master the guembri but also the understanding of the cultural context in which Gnawa music exists. This training was complemented by the rich oral traditions passed down through generations, ensuring that El Kasri was well-versed in the stories and meanings embedded within the music.
His innovative style can be seen as a reflection of Morocco’s diverse musical heritage. For instance, by integrating elements of Berber and Arabic music into his performances, El Kasri creates a soundscape that narrates the history of Morocco itself. This blending of styles not only highlights his versatility but also showcases the interconnectedness of different musical traditions across the country.
Collaborations with musicians from various genres have allowed El Kasri to experiment with new sounds while staying true to his roots. For example, during his performance with Joe Zawinul, the rhythmic complexity of Gnawa music melded beautifully with the improvisational nature of jazz, creating a mesmerizing experience for the audience. This fusion not only captivated attendees but also opened doors for future collaborations with artists from around the world, broadening the appeal of Gnawa music.
El Kasri’s collaboration with Snarky Puppy exemplifies a growing trend within the music industry where traditional musicians are partnering with contemporary artists to create something entirely new. This trend is not only revitalizing traditional music forms but also engaging younger audiences who may not have been exposed to these genres before. Through such efforts, El Kasri is ensuring that Gnawa music remains relevant and continues to evolve.
As the world becomes more interconnected, the role of musicians like El Kasri becomes increasingly important. He serves as a cultural ambassador, sharing the rich traditions of Gnawa music with global audiences while fostering an appreciation for its roots. This not only helps preserve the cultural heritage of Morocco but also enriches the global music scene with its unique sounds and rhythms. El Kasri’s journey is a testament to the power of music as a universal language that transcends borders and brings people together.
The seeds of El Kasri’s musical prowess were planted early. At the tender age of seven, he began his formal training under the tutelage of Maâlems Alouane and Abdelouahed Stitou, respected masters of the Gnawa tradition. However, it was a more personal connection that truly ignited his passion for this ancient art form. El Kasri’s grandmother’s husband, a former slave from Sudan, introduced the young boy to the mystical rhythms of Gnawa music. This early exposure to the deep, spiritual essence of Gnawa left an indelible mark on El Kasri, shaping his future path.
As El Kasri matured, he developed a unique talent that set him apart from his peers. He demonstrated an uncanny ability to seamlessly blend Gnawa rhythms from both northern and southern Morocco, creating a sound that was at once familiar and innovative. This skill not only showcased his deep understanding of the diverse Gnawa traditions but also positioned him as a unifying figure in the Gnawa musical landscape. The power of El Kasri’s music has not been confined to Morocco’s borders.
His willingness to collaborate with foreign musicians has played a crucial role in bringing Gnawa music to a global audience while simultaneously enriching the tradition. A standout moment in his international career came in 2004 when he shared the stage with jazz legend Joe Zawinul at the Gnaoua World Music Festival of Essaouira. This performance exemplified the potential for Gnawa music to transcend cultural boundaries.
El Kasri’s global impact continued to grow. In 2018, he opened the Gnaoua World Music Festival alongside the Brooklyn-based jazz jam band Snarky Puppy. This collaboration between traditional Gnawa and contemporary jazz created a unique fusion that captivated audiences and further cemented El Kasri’s reputation as a bridge builder between musical worlds. The same year saw El Kasri’s artistry recognized on one of the world’s most prestigious musical stages. His stunning voice echoed through the halls of the BBC Proms, where he performed alongside the multi-talented artist Jacob Collier.
Maâlem Hamid El Kasri’s journey from a young boy in Ksar El Kebir to an internationally recognized master of Gnawa music is a testament to his extraordinary talent, dedication, and the universal appeal of Gnawa music. Through his powerful voice and innovative approach to traditional rhythms, El Kasri has not only preserved the rich heritage of Gnawa rhythms but has also helped to evolve it, ensuring its relevance for new generations of listeners around the world.