Mixtape: Sounds of Blida
words by Eljoee
Known as “the city of roses,” Blida carries a unique musical sensitivity, both nostalgic and vibrant. Walking through its streets, you feel that music lives everywhere: in voices, in gatherings, in everyday life. As a historic cultural crossroad, it’s one of the places where Andalusian influence took root after Al-Andalus, and that legacy still lives on in its melodies, maqamat, and emotional depth. Over time, it blended with local Algerian styles, creating something refined yet popular (شعبي), spiritual yet deeply human.
Blida is not just my hometown; it’s where my musical identity began. I grew up surrounded by its sounds, rhythms, and deep cultural heritage. I was deeply influenced by artists who reflect the soul of the region. Among them is Saloua, who holds a very special place. Born Fettouma Lemitti in the heights of Blida near Chréa, her musical journey began early, shaped by traditional masters and a deep love for harmony passed down through her family. She moved between tradition and modernity with rare elegance from radio in the 1950s to international stages, becoming one of the voices that carried Algerian music beyond its borders after independence.
Saloua, known for songs Kif Rayi Hamelni, Ya Wlad el Houma, Ma Tsalouniche, Tharet oulidi, Ana ghazli, Allab biya elhob"
Saloua
Her music is marked by both power and sensitivity. Through songs like “Lalla Amina” and many others, she built a repertoire of hundreds of titles, blending modern Algerian song with Andalusian and hawzi influences (or “haouzi” which is a popular urban musical genre from Algeria, specifically deriving from the Gharnati arabo-andalusian tradition of Tlemcen. It is known for its poetic lyrics and classical instrumentation, featuring artists like Cheikha Titma and Elarbi Ben Sari.)
Saloua had this rare ability to inhabit each style with sincerity, evolving constantly while staying deeply rooted. There is something intimate and timeless in her voice as if she is telling a story that belongs to all of us. Alongside her, Rabah Driassa stands as an iconic figure whose music connects deeply with Algerian identity – rooted, sincere, and universal.
Rabah Driassa
For me, Blida’s music is storytelling in its very essence: it carries memory, emotion, and a strong sense of belonging. Whether it’s Andalusian, Chaâbi-influenced, or more folk-oriented, there’s always a poetic sincerity that shaped the way I approach music today as a producer and artist. I’ve created this playlist to reflect this journey. It’s a personal selection of sounds that represent what Blida means to me, both historically and emotionally. I’m happy to help shine a light on the beauty of Blida’s musical heritage.
About Contributor
Eljoee is an Algerian multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer. His work moves between Maghrebi sounds, electronic music, and regional influences, leading to collaborations with artists across the MENA.
