Gnaoua Festival 2026: Hind Ennaira and Najib Oubelkas honor legendary Maâlems in tribute performance
A moving tribute to Morocco's Gnaoua musical heritage took center stage at the 2026 Gnaoua and World Music Festival in Essaouira, where vocalist Hind Ennaira and Maâlem Najib Oubelkas delivered a performance dedicated to the memory of Maâlem Bakbou and other revered Gnaoua masters who have passed away.
Following their joint appearance, the two artists reflected on the significance of the concert, describing it as both a celebration of the genre's enduring legacy and a tribute to the figures who helped shape one of Morocco's most iconic musical traditions.
The performance featured fresh interpretations of several celebrated Gnaoua classics. While preserving the spirit and rhythms of the original repertoire, the artists introduced newly adapted lyrics, offering audiences a contemporary perspective on timeless compositions without losing their cultural essence.
Beyond the musical arrangements, Ennaira and Oubelkas emphasized the importance of preserving and passing on Gnaoua traditions to future generations. They highlighted the role of mentorship and live performance in ensuring that the music's spiritual and cultural foundations continue to thrive.
The discussion also turned to the evolving role of women within the Gnaoua community. Traditionally led by male maâlems, the genre has increasingly welcomed female performers who are contributing new artistic voices while remaining deeply connected to its heritage. Ennaira noted that this growing presence reflects a broader transformation within Morocco's cultural landscape, where talent and dedication are gradually reshaping long-standing conventions.
Their tribute underscored the festival's broader mission of safeguarding Morocco's intangible cultural heritage while encouraging artistic innovation. By blending respect for tradition with modern interpretation, the performance illustrated how Gnaoua music continues to evolve without losing its historical identity.
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