MAÂLEM ABDERRAHIM OUGHESSAL

Born in 1956 in Casablanca, Abderrahim Benthami Oughessal grew up in a family deeply rooted in the Gnaoua tradition. Son of Maâlem Abdelkader Oughessal, he was introduced at an early age to the art of the guembri and ritual practices, in the pure lineage of Tagnaouite. He furthered his training under major figures such as Abderrahman Paco and H’mida Boussou, whose influence left a lasting imprint on his style. Renowned for his complete mastery of the Marsaoui style, he represents a generation of Maâlems committed to preserving heritage while remaining open to musical exchange. Alongside Hicham Merchane, son of Maâlem Abdelkébir Merchane, he actively contributes to the transmission of this art with both rigor and creativity. A regular presence on fusion stages, Abderrahim Benthami Oughessa has distinguished himself through notable collaborations, particularly with American percussionist Andy Narell and multi-instrumentalist Abdenour Djemai, building bridges between Gnaoua and other musical traditions.