Nass El Ghiwane is a legendary Moroccan music group that has played a key role in shaping the Moroccan music landscape since their formation in 1970.
Originating from Casablanca, the band is known for its unique blend of traditional Moroccan sounds with modern influences, especially within the chaabi genre.
Their music blends elements of folk songs, Sufi poetry and Gnawa rhythms to create a unique sound that resonates with audiences of all generations.
Often referred to as the “African Rolling Stones”, Nass El Ghiwane’s lyrics address social issues and cultural identity, establishing them not only as musicians but as icons of Morocco and the wider Arab world. Cultural icon.
contour
- Band name: Nas El Jiwane
- Origin: Casablanca, Morocco
- Genre: Maghreb Pop
- Years active: 1971 to present
- Members: Rachid Batma, Hamid Batma, Redouane Raifak, Allal Yaala, Omar Sayed
- Former members: Abd El-Aziz Tahiri, Abderahmane Kirouche (Paco), Boujemaa Brahim, Larbi Batma
- Net worth: $50 million
early formation
Nass El Ghiwane was founded in 1970 in Casablanca, Morocco. Members of the group initially came together through participation in political theater and cultural events. They draw inspiration from traditional Moroccan folk music and strive to create music that reflects the realities and struggles of Moroccan society.
Founding members include Abdusram Lagreeb, Omar Said and the late Hassan Hakmoun, among others. Their early performances were characterized by a commitment to social commentary and cultural pride that resonated deeply with audiences.
personal life
Rabbi Batema (1948-1997):
- Role: Founding member, actor, singer, percussionist
- Family: Larbi Batma is the uncle of Moroccan singer Dounia Batma. Dounia’s father, Hamid Batma, is Larbi’s brother and a member of Nass El Ghiwane. Dounia married Mohamed Al Turk and had a child in June 2017.
Omar said:
- Role: Founding member, singer, actor, percussionist
- Family: Specific details about Omar Said’s wife and children have not been made public.
Aral Yara:
- Role: Founding member, banjo player
- Family: There is no public record of information about Allal Yaala’s personal life, including his wife and children.
Bhujma Brahim (1944–1974):
- Role: Founding member, singer, poet, composer
- Family: There is limited public information about Boujemaa Hgour’s family.
Abdurrahman “Paco” Kirush (1948-2012):
- Role: Joined the band as singer and songwriter in 1974
- Family: After leaving Nass El Ghiwane, Paco formed “The Paco Band” with his two sons Younis and Yaseen Paco.
Rashid Batma:
- Role: Joined Nass El Ghiwane in 1996 as vocalist and percussionist
- Family: Rashid is a member of the Batma family, which has deep ties to Moroccan music. Specific details about his immediate family have not been widely released.
Hamid Batma:
- Position: Joined the group in 2000
- Family: Brother of Larbi Batma and father of singer Dounia Batma. Further personal details are limited.
Profession
Nass El Ghiwane’s career began with their innovative approach to music that combined traditional Moroccan instruments with Western styles.
They gained popularity through live performances and recordings with songs that addressed social issues such as poverty, injustice, and cultural identity. Their first album, released in the early 1970s, marked an important moment in the history of Moroccan music.
The band is known for its energetic performances and poetic lyrics, which often draw from Sufi themes and local folklore. Over the years, they released numerous albums and became a symbol of resistance to political oppression during Morocco’s turbulent times.
Their influence extends beyond music. They inspired countless artists across North Africa and played a crucial role in reviving interest in Moroccan traditional music.
net worth
Nass El Ghiwane’s combined net worth is estimated to be approximately $50 million. Their influence on Moroccan music and culture is immeasurable.
social media
- Instagram account: @nasslghiwane
- Twitter account: @NGhiwane
discography
- Yalala
- Gil Nta
- Lala Acha
- Rahbabu
- Alf Leila Valera
