Algerian musician Idir has expressed his excitement for the upcoming "1, 2, 3 Kabylie" concert at Bercy on January 12. In an interview with La Dépêche de Kabylie, Idir described the event as a unique spectacle that brings together talented artists such as Mohamed Allaoua and Lounis Aït Menguellet. The concert, which will take place at the Accor Hôtels Arena, is expected to draw a large crowd of 20,000 people.
Idir initially had reservations about the concept of "1, 2, 3 Kabylie," which he felt was similar to the "1, 2, 3 Soleil" event. However, he eventually agreed to participate, citing the enthusiasm of the promoters, Habib and Omar Alliche, who convinced him to join the project. Idir praised the duo for their audacity in bringing Kabyle music to a large venue like Bercy.
The concert will feature a combination of solo and group performances by the three artists, who have distinct styles. Idir emphasized the importance of unity in the concept, stating that they will likely start and end the show together on stage. While details of the performance are still being finalized, Idir confirmed that the show will be a spectacular one with many surprises.
Idir's last major concert was at the Coupole d'Alger in 2018, where he performed as part of the Yennayer celebrations. He had previously stated that he would only return to performing in Algeria once Tamazight, the Berber language, was recognized as an official language. The event was a success, but a planned tour that was supposed to follow was ultimately cancelled.
Idir attributed the cancellation of the tour to a lack of coordination and coherence between the organizers and the Algerian National Office for the Management and Development of Cultural and Artistic Heritage (ONDA). He stated that he had been in touch with the ONDA, but the project ultimately fell through due to various reasons, including concerns about security and potential extremist threats.
Idir denied allegations that he had been pressured by the government or extremist groups to cancel the tour. He emphasized that he is an Amazigh and has always remained true to his roots, stating that he is "neither an extremist nor a servant of the government." Idir expressed his commitment to promoting Kabyle culture and language, citing his previous statements on the importance of recognizing Tamazight as an official language in Algeria.
The upcoming concert at Bercy is seen as an opportunity for Idir to reconnect with his fans and promote Kabyle music on a larger stage. With a reputation for being a strong advocate for Berber rights and culture, Idir's performance is expected to draw attention from fans and critics alike. The event is set to be a highlight of the year's cultural calendar, showcasing the rich musical heritage of Algeria's Kabyle community.
Key points
- Idir is set to perform at Bercy on January 12 as part of the "1, 2, 3 Kabylie" event.
- The concert will feature Idir, Mohamed Allaoua, and Lounis Aït Menguellet, and is expected to draw a large crowd of 20,000 people.
- Idir emphasized the importance of unity and promoting Kabyle culture and language through his music.
