Souad Massi

The Algerian singer/songwriter, Souad Massi, is an incredibly innovative musician that combines numerous genres together to create a unique sound of her own. She usually performs in intimate settings whenever she tours and brings a backing band that uses all acoustic instruments.

Souad Massi’s music often contains polyphonic melodies that are highly intricate and interesting. Her music is heavily influenced by American ‘60s folk music, which can be conveyed by her soft finger picking melodies on the guitar and her gentle, beautiful voice. Although folk music is a prominent aspect of her style, she also combines many other genres into her sound such as the Portuguese Fado music, Arabic music, as well as elements of African music. Her music is delicately presented, but carries layers of pathos, which convey a somber tone. She is backed by a very talented band with musicians that play a variety of instruments. The members in her band play classical guitars that accompany her own guitar playing, giving the sound a very full and expansive quality. Double harmonic major scales are often played on the classical guitars, which gives the music an Arabic sound. There is also use of accordion in the music, which conveys Souad’s Parisian influences. The percussion is delicately presented and is often performed on such instruments as a full drum kit and bongo drums.

A Souad Massi concert usually conveys a cool, laid back vibe that will suck you into its atmosphere. Although the music is very soft and beautiful, its strong sense of emotion will captivate you throughout the performance. She has also incorporated interesting theatrics into her performances such as having a tap dancer perform a rhythm part of a song during one of her shows. Souad’s angelic voice is always at the forefront of the music and she often sings in various languages ranging from Arabic, French, and English, which present a unique characteristic to her music. Souad Massi’s live performances are just as beautiful and mesmerizing as her albums, and if you are looking for a concert that will put you in a state of amazement, then Souad’s performance will not disappoint.

Youssoupha is a rap artist from France and I was lucky enough to see him recently at one of his live performances in the country.

His style is strong and his voice is deep and meaningful. Even if you are not into the musical genre of rap, do not let this put you off going to see him. He raps slower than the average rap artist and therefore his style is easier to follow and more gentle on the ears of the audience. His personality really does shine through in his live performances and as an audience member you do really get to grips with his personality, what goes through his talented head and the messages he tries to portray through his songs.

If rap is the genre of your choice then what are you waiting for, this guy is the one for you. He’s very talented and highly regarded in the rap music genre. If you are in France then definitely check out Youssoupha, it is something different and worth exploring. You will not be disappointed.