In Maghrebi society a musical vocation, whether for men or for women, is often lived as a transgression. However, the title "singer," or "master" incites respect and is appreciated by the layman, while its feminine counterpart, even for those who appreciate the talent of the ones who bear it, signifies social ostracism and evokes a hellish existence. In the Algerian west, it is the whole
universe of Raï and the sheikhat [female singers
of traditional music styles] of Oran and the region south
of Oran which makes itself felt. Although it is laden
with anathema, and associated with low social status and
debauchery by those who are not from Oran, Raï by women
is an integral part of the local popular culture and
indissociable from specific social rituals. It has
existed for nearly half a century, during which
particular traditional aspects have gained attention
through the national and international success of some cheb
and chebbat [title given respectively to male and
female Raï singers] of electric Raï. The origin of Raï
|
