Role

:

Composer Performer

Country

:

Morocco

Birth

:

September 16, 1963 in Morocco

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Hassan Hakmoun is a Moroccan musician who has gained international recognition for his unique blend of traditional Gnawa music with contemporary styles. Born in Marrakech in 1963, Hakmoun grew up in a family of musicians and was exposed to music from a young age. His father was a master musician and his mother was a singer, and they both encouraged him to pursue music as a career. Hakmoun began his musical training at the age of four, learning to play the guembri, a three-stringed bass instrument used in Gnawa music. He also learned to play the krakebs, metal castanets used in Gnawa music to create a percussive rhythm. As a child, he performed with his family at local festivals and celebrations, and he quickly developed a reputation as a talented musician. In the early 1980s, Hakmoun moved to New York City to pursue his musical career. He quickly became involved in the city's vibrant music scene, collaborating with musicians from a variety of genres. He formed his own band, the Hassan Hakmoun Group, and began performing at clubs and festivals throughout the city. Hakmoun's music is a fusion of traditional Gnawa music with contemporary styles such as jazz, rock, and funk. He incorporates elements of these genres into his music while still staying true to the traditional rhythms and melodies of Gnawa music. His music is characterized by its hypnotic rhythms, intricate melodies, and soulful vocals. Hakmoun has released several albums throughout his career, including "Trance" (1993), "The Gift" (1995), and "Unity" (1999). His music has been praised for its innovative blend of traditional and contemporary styles, and he has been recognized as one of the leading figures in the world music scene. Hakmoun has also collaborated with a number of other musicians throughout his career. He has worked with jazz saxophonist Don Cherry, rock guitarist David Byrne, and world music pioneer Peter Gabriel, among others. These collaborations have helped to bring his music to a wider audience and have helped to establish him as a respected musician in the world music community. In addition to his musical career, Hakmoun has also been involved in a number of philanthropic efforts. He has worked with organizations such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization to promote cultural exchange and to raise awareness about global health issues. He has also worked to promote education and cultural preservation in his native Morocco. Hakmoun has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 1991, he was awarded the prestigious National Heritage Fellowship by the National Endowment for the Arts, which is the highest honor given to traditional artists in the United States. He has also been recognized by the Moroccan government for his contributions to Moroccan culture. Hakmoun's music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. His unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles has helped to bridge cultural divides and to promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures. He remains a respected and influential figure in the world music scene, and his music will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

More....