Who among us does not know Cheikh Mohamed Younsi, known as “El Qallaâ”? A man whose fame spread far and wide with the rise of modern media.
Born near Ain Aghbal in 1927, originally from Ahfir, he passed away in Berkane in the summer of 2008.
He graduated from the renowned “El Qallaâ School” in Oulad Menkar, a village that produced several popular artists from Ahfir, such as Cheikh El Bachir, Cheikh El Rouki, Cheikh El Ghouthi, and others.
But it was Mohamed Younsi who achieved true success and widespread recognition, thanks to his rare combination of talents: zajal poetry, musical composition, and performance.
His migration to France in the early 1960s marked a decisive turning point.
Living among Maghreb workers in Europe, he witnessed firsthand their hardships and struggles. With his deep sensitivity and immense creative energy, he transformed these experiences into a collection of powerful popular songs that faithfully portrayed immigrant life.
The most iconic of these works is “El Bassbour Lkhder” (The Green Passport), a song that became legendary, widely known and cherished both inside and outside Morocco. Over the years, it became inseparable from the name of Mohamed Younsi.
I still remember how, in the 1960s, we memorized many parts of it because we heard it so often.
Cheikh Younsi played a major role in promoting the region and showcasing its authentic popular art. He also drew attention to the harsh conditions faced by early Moroccan workers abroad, trying, in his own way, to ease their burden.
In the history of Moroccan music, he could be compared to his contemporary, Houcine Slaoui.
With his troupe, he animated family celebrations throughout the eastern region. During the summer, he barely rested due to the large number of weddings and festivities. His performances attracted an extraordinary audience.
I recall that he performed at my own wedding, one night in July 1979, right after the show by the group “Jil Salam”.
Beyond his artistic talent, he was a man of noble character, dignified and honorable. He was also one of my relatives, on both my father’s and mother’s sides.
May God grant mercy to Cheikh Mohamed Younsi “El Qallaâ” and envelop him in His forgiveness.
Amr Belhassan – 26/02/2010
