Maâlem Ahmed Baalil is the leader of the Marrakech-based Baalil troupe, composed primarily by members of his own family. He worked for many years with the great Maâlem Sam (real name Mustapha Aberchich). Ahmed Baalil’s performance – alongside his father Mohammed Baalil – in fusion with a traditionnelle South Korean troupe during the 11th edition of the Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival was warmly applauded by the audience at Moulay Hassan Square. The Baalil troupe has performed many concerts and tours abroad, notably in Denmark, Switzerland, and France.