Born in 1954 in Marrakech, Mustapha Bakbou grew up in a Gnaoui zaouia where his father, Maalem El Ayachi Bakbou, initiated him to Tagnaouite art at a very early age. Mustapha played with the famous Jil Jilala and so was part of the folk movement of the 1970s. Known for his exceptional fusions with well-known international artists such as Pat Metheny, Louis Bertignac, Eric Legnini and French jazz band Sixun at the Gnaoua and World Music Festival, he has also played in America, China and Europe. His performance with the American Dance Company Step Afrika was one of the most highly acclaimed concerts of the Gnaoua and World Music Festival last year.

— Maâlem Mustapha Baqbou AU FESTIVAL

— Maâlem Mustapha Baqbou IN PICTURES