Gnaoua 2025: 33 Maâlems invite the voices of the world to Essaouira

Since its creation in 1998, the Festival has established itself as a crossroads of cultures, where the dialogue between Gnaoua traditions and world music is embodied in vibrant performances, blending spirituality, groove, and improvisation. This year again, several highlights are already confirmed, according to a statement.

Among them, the highly anticipated meeting between Maâlem Khalid Sansi and the Cuban Cimafunk promises an electrifying fusion of sacred trance and Afro-Latin funk. Organizers describe this collaboration as an «incandescent collision »between two sonic heirs in search of rhythmic freedom.

Another highlight announced is the creation between Maâlem Morad El Marjan and the Tunisian oud master Dhafer Youssef, in a «mystical dialogue between two sacred heritages ». A meeting between the deep sounds of the guembri and the spiritual flights of the oud, where jazz, Sufism, and Gnaoua tradition intersect.

On the female voices side, the festival highlights an unprecedented collaboration between Asmaa Hamzaoui & Bnat Timbouktou and the Malian singer Rokia Koné, nicknamed «the Rose of Bamako ». This fusion pays tribute to great African voices, continuing the legacy of Oumou Sangaré and Fatoumata Diawara, notes the statement.

In addition to these fusions, three solo concerts are also scheduled on the Moulay Hassan stage: Cimafunk, Rokia Koné, and Dhafer Youssef will each deliver a personal performance, revealing the uniqueness of their respective musical universes.

Finally, the Festival promises further announcements in the coming weeks to complete this abundant program. True to its spirit for over 25 years, the Gnaoua and World Music Festival intends to make this new edition a musical adventure without borders.