Algeria
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Blaoui Houari
Oran (Medina Jdida), Algeria
Archival Overview
Patriarch of western Algerian popular music who modernized the Bedouin heritage of Oranie, composed over 500 songs, and mentored the legendary stars of modern Raï including Cheb Mami and Khaled.
Biographical Record
Blaoui Houari (1920–2017) was born in Medina Jdida, Oran, where his father ran a cafe that was the meeting place for traditional Bedouin poets. A virtuoso accordionist, pianist, and oud player, Blaoui revolutionized Algerian music by introducing the accordion, piano, and brass to traditional Bedouin poetry (Melhun).
During the Algerian War, Blaoui was interned in the French colonial concentration camp at Sig for composing patriotic anti-colonial anthems. After independence, he directed the Oran Radio Orchestra and the National Theater, composing timeless standards like Bakhta and El Hmam. He was affectionately called 'The Master of Masters' by the kings of Raï.
Key Life Milestones
The Accordion Revolution in Oran
Introduced modern chromatic accordion and brass into western Algerian folk melodies.
Imprisonment in Sig Concentration Camp
Interned by French colonial authorities for composing clandestine revolutionary mobilization songs.
Memorial Guestbook & Tributes
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Final Resting Place
Perpetual MemorialOran, Algeria