Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Dourssaf Cherif
Published on 2024-04-05 20:06:50
The pianist Maurice El Medioni, an emblematic figure of Arab-Andalusian and raï music, passed away on March 25, 2024, leaving behind a rich and diverse musical heritage.
Born in Oran, Algeria on October 18, 1928, Maurice was surrounded from a young age by the enchanting melodies of his family of musicians. It was in this artistic environment, under the influence of his uncle Saoud the Oranian, that the flame of musical passion was ignited in young Maurice.
At just 9 years old, Maurice El Medioni discovered the ivory keys of the piano which would become the extension of his soul. It didn’t take long for him to excel in various musical genres, making history by integrating the piano at the heart of raï music, thus contributing to the evolution of this style.
After the independence of Algeria, Maurice settled in France, where he led a double life as a tailor and musician. His collaboration with numerous artists cemented his reputation as the patriarch of Algerian pop music.
His work, especially the albums ‘Café Oran’ and ‘Descarga Oriental’, was a success, earning him a World Music Award from the BBC in 2007.
Maurice was not just a musician; he was also a guide, generously sharing his knowledge and passion with the younger generation. His unique fusion of Eastern and Western sounds made him an icon and an endless source of inspiration.
In 1996, Maurice’s career was crowned with the recording of ‘Café Oran’. Despite the years, his talent had not faded, and it was almost by chance that he found himself in the studio with British producer Ben Mandelson, creating what would become a classic.
The passing of Maurice El Medioni marks the end of a musical era, but his legacy continues to live on through his music that has touched hearts on three continents: Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. His influence still resonates, and his music continues to charm and inspire, crossing borders and generations.
Maurice El Medioni will forever be engraved in collective memory as an artist who transcended cultures and eras with his universal harmonies. His departure is a loss for the world, but his music remains an eternal gift to humanity.
Read the original article(French) on Algerie 360
