Cheb Mami
Cheb Mami
Cheb Mami (born Ahmed Khelifati; July 11, 1966 in Saida, Algeria) is an Algerian singer and actor. He became popular in the early 1990s with his unique blend of traditional Algerian and modern Western music.
Early life
Cheb Mami was born in Saida, Algeria on July 11, 1966. He grew up in a musical family and began singing at a young age. He was influenced by a variety of genres, including Algerian folk, rai, and Western pop music.
Music career
Cheb Mami released his first album, Le Prince, in 1990. The album was a commercial success in Algeria and France and helped to launch his career. He followed up with a series of exitoso albums, including Prince of Raï (1993), Douni El Bladi (1994), and Meli Meli (1996).
Cheb Mami's music is characterized by its blend of traditional Algerian and modern Western elements. He often uses elements of rai, chaabi, and Berber music in his songs. His lyrics often deal with themes of love, loss, and social injustice.
In addition to his music career, Cheb Mami has also appeared in a number of films, including 100% Arabica (1997), Aks El Ghôla (1998), and La Danse du Feu (2004).
Personal life
Cheb Mami was married to Nadia Hamou in 1993. The couple have two children together. In 2009, Cheb Mami was sentenced to five years in prison for allegedly attempting to rape a French journalist. He was released from prison in 2014.
Awards and honors
Cheb Mami has been the recipient of a number of awards and honors, including:
- Golden Cassette Award for Best Male Singer (1992)
- NRJ Music Award for Best Male Artist (1993)
- World Music Awards for Best-Selling African Artist (1994 and 1996)
- Victoires de la Musique Award for Best World Music Album (1997)
Legacy
Cheb Mami is considered one of the most influential rai singers of all time. He has helped to popularize rai music around the world and has inspired a generation of young musicians. His music continues to be enjoyed by fans from all over the world.
