The Algerian cultural scene is abuzz with a recent event announced by the Tizi Ouzou Wilaya's Culture Directorate, aimed at promoting young talents in Kabyle music. The event, titled "Lumière sur la nouvelle scène de la chanson amazighe," is set to take place from December 28 to 30, 2019, at the Mouloud Mammeri Culture House. The event pays tribute to renowned artists Cherif Kheddam, Brahim Izri, Taleb Rabah, Djamila, and Mohamed Lamari.
The event features a lineup of artists, including Arezki Ouali, Malik Kezoui, Sihem Stiti, Cilia Ould Mohand, Bilal Mohri, Achour Amroun, Yasmine Taleb, Nassima At Ammi, Fella Bellali, Mokrane Radji, Sarah Mahour, Lounes Chelleli, Zahoua Mahour, Aziz Rezgui, and Hamza Zaabot. While the initiative to provide a platform for young talents is commendable, the selection of artists has raised eyebrows. Notably, the inclusion of established artists such as Sihem Stiti, who is about to celebrate her 50th anniversary and 25 years of career, has sparked controversy.
Critics argue that the selection of established artists dilutes the purpose of promoting young talents. Sihem Stiti, who began her career in 1994, has achieved significant milestones, including her first television appearance in 1996 and her first album in 1997. Her inclusion in the lineup has been deemed "inélégant" and "maladroit" by some, suggesting that the event's organizers may be more interested in drawing attention to themselves than in genuinely promoting emerging artists.
The tribute to legendary artists Cherif Kheddam, Brahim Izri, Taleb Rabah, Djamila, and Mohamed Lamari has also raised concerns. These artists represent a wealth of experience and cultural significance, with each deserving of a more substantial tribute than a single event. Some argue that reducing their legacy to a promotional event for young talents does them a disservice.
The Culture Directorate's approach to promoting Kabyle music has been questioned, with some critics suggesting that the event prioritizes spectacle over substance. The emphasis on "folklore" and "promotion" has led to accusations that the event is more about creating a buzz than about genuinely supporting emerging artists.
Despite the controversy, the event is set to take place, with the press and public cordially invited. It remains to be seen whether the event will achieve its intended goal of promoting young talents in Kabyle music or if it will be remembered for its controversy.
The debate surrounding the event highlights the challenges of promoting cultural events in Algeria, where the line between genuine support for emerging artists and self-promotion can become blurred. As the cultural scene continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize substance over spectacle and ensure that events like this one genuinely support the artists they aim to promote.
Key points
- The Algerian cultural event "Lumière sur la nouvelle scène de la chanson amazighe" has sparked controversy over its selection of artists, including established stars, to promote young talents in Kabyle music.
