Legendary Amazigh Artist Benasser Oukhouya Dies at 86, Leaving Rich Musical Legacy

Benasser Oukhouya, whose real name was Benasser Fassoul, is considered the authentic voice of the Atlas and the one who revealed the iconic Hadda Ouâkki to the world. Born in 1939 in Zaouiat Cheikh in the province of Beni Mellal, the illustrious deceased started his career in 1961. At the time, he sang in Amazigh and Darija, which allowed him to become a great master of popular music.

Benasser Oukhouya had a mastery of various Amazigh and foreign musical instruments such as the louthar and the violin. But he eventually adopted the bendir until the end of his career in 1984. The famous artist recorded dozens of songs in the studios of the national radio and established himself as one of the most sought-after artists during festivals and ceremonies in Morocco.

The illustrious deceased was also the mentor of Hadda Ouâkki, the great Amazigh singer who has marked the history of Moroccan popular music. She made her debut in music at the age of 16 under the guidance of Benasser Oukhouya, with whom she formed a mythical duo, before embarking on a solo career.