During this artistic event organized under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI by the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Interaction in cooperation with the National Music Committee, music lovers appreciated the performances of Jbara artists , Nasr Megri and Rhany Kabbaj.
For this second evening of the festival, the young audience came en masse to share unforgettable moments with Rhany, an artist whose love for Cuban and Latin rhythms has influenced his musical productions, characterized by fusions between Moroccan rhythms and those Salsa.
Rhany Kabbaj received, on this occasion, the “Hassan Megri” prize in recognition of his artistic career.
For his part, the young artist Nasr Megri, son of the late artist Hassan Megri, gave a concert which transported the audience into a magical atmosphere.
The public also had an appointment with the rock music of Jbara, who embarked for the occasion on a colorful journey and soundscapes mixing Amazigh, Arabic, Gnaoui, Raï, Andalusian, rock, reggae and flamenco, thus breaking down the barriers between cultures.
“The Summer of the Oudayas” continues to highlight the musical diversity of Morocco in order to satisfy the tastes of the public, Ouafaa Bennani, director of this cultural event and president of the National Music Committee, told the press.
The festival also aspires to introduce the public to the cultures and civilizations of other peoples, added Ms. Bennani, specifying that this year’s edition sees the participation of artists from Latin American countries.
The arts event will also honor a number of artists with awards in recognition of their artistic careers,she said.
For their part, artists Rhany Kabbaj and nasr Megri told the press that they were happy to participate in the second day of the Festival and share moments of joy with the public.
On the third day, the “Été des Oudayas” festival will welcome Lmoutchou who will receive the prize for best rapper, as well as the group Ithran who will be awarded the golden Fibule. The evening will end in apotheosis with the legendary Nass El Ghiwane who will receive the Al Farabi Prize.
To close this event, the public will attend a show on July 30 by the group “Hermanos” bringing together the Alaoui brothers and the Tuna brothers (Morocco, Chile, Venezuela, Peru), followed by concerts by maestro Majid Bekkas and Sami Ray.
What are the main highlights of the Summer of the Oudayas festival and its impact on local music culture?
Title: Celebrating Musical Diversity: An Interview with Ouafaa Bennani on the Summer of the Oudayas festival
Q: Thank you for joining us, Ouafaa. The Summer of the Oudayas festival seems to be a captivating party of musical diversity in Morocco. Can you tell us more about the event and its significance?
A: Thank you for having me. The Summer of the Oudayas festival is a cultural initiative organized under the high patronage of His Majesty king Mohammed VI. It is aimed at showcasing the rich musical diversity found in Morocco. We believe that music is a universal language that has the power to bring people together. This festival highlights various genres, breaking down cultural barriers and celebrating our artistic heritage.
Q: We saw remarkable performances from artists like Rhany Kabbaj, who blends Cuban and Latin rhythms with traditional Moroccan music. How crucial is this fusion for the future of Moroccan music?
A: Rhany Kabbaj is a great example of how artists can innovate by merging different musical traditions. This fusion is crucial as it not only enriches our musical landscape but also attracts younger audiences who are seeking fresh sounds. As we move forward, embracing these diverse influences will help preserve our cultural identity while also allowing it to evolve.
Q: The festival also aims to introduce audiences to other cultures. Can you elaborate on the importance of this intercultural exchange?
A: Intercultural exchange is at the heart of the Summer of the Oudayas. By featuring artists from Latin American countries, we expose our audiences to new worlds and perspectives. this helps foster mutual respect and understanding among different cultures. It’s vital in today’s globalized world where interconnectedness is the norm.
Q: You mentioned awarding artists like Rhany Kabbaj and Nasr Megri for their contributions. How do these recognitions impact the artists and the music industry?
A: Recognizing artists for their contributions, like awarding Rhany Kabbaj the “Hassan Megri” prize, is essential for boosting their profiles, encouraging their creativity, and inspiring others. It validates their hard work and artistry, and it instills a sense of pride within the music community. Awards can also enhance the visibility of the Moroccan music industry on international platforms.
Q: Looking ahead, can you share any insights into what attendees can expect in future editions of the festival?
A: our goal is to continuously evolve and bring more diversity to the festival. We are exploring collaborations with international artists and various genres to keep the entertainment fresh and exciting. The upcoming performances, including those by Lmoutchou and the legendary Nass El Ghiwane, promise to be memorable. Each year, we aim to surprise our audience while honoring our rich traditions.
Q: For aspiring musicians who wont to create a similar fusion of genres in their work, what practical advice would you give them?
A: My advice to aspiring musicians is to stay true to their roots while exploring new influences. engage with different styles, collaborate with artists from various backgrounds, and don’t be afraid to experiment. It’s also important to cultivate a deep understanding of both the traditional aspects and the influences they wish to incorporate. this way,they can create something unique and authentic.
Q: Thank you, Ouafaa, for sharing these insightful perspectives. we look forward to seeing how the Summer of the Oudayas continues to grow and inspire!
A: Thank you for having me! I hope everyone can join us in celebrating the vibrant musical heritage of Morocco.