Maâlem Mustapha Baqbou
“Mustapha Bakbou”
- 📍
- Marrakech
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- 1953–2025
AI illustration
Biography
Born in Marrakech, introduced to Tagnaouite by his father Maâlem El-Ayachi (Layaachi) Baqbou inside a Gnaoua zaouia. Rose to prominence as a member of Jil Jilala during the 1970s folk movement, where he combined the authentic Gnaoua tradition with international musical sounds and became one of the emblematic figures of the Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival. Died on 8 September 2025 in Marrakech, aged 72, after a long illness.
Discography
Gnawa Trance Music of Morocco
1998
Lineage
- Son of Maâlem El-Ayachi (Layaachi) Baqbou