About this album

Sound: "A vibrant blend of raï, pop melodies, and contemporary R&B infused with Faudel's emotive vocals."

Where they were

When 'Samra' was released in 2001, Faudel was transitioning from a rising star in the raï scene to a more mainstream artist. This album followed his successful debut, 'Baïda', and marked his first major release after achieving significant recognition in Europe and North Africa.

Why it matters

'Samra' played a crucial role in popularizing raï music outside of Algeria, contributing to a wave of interest in North African sounds in the early 2000s. The album received positive reviews and solidified Faudel's status as a cultural ambassador for Algerian music, showcasing his ability to blend traditional elements with modern pop.

Essential tracks

  • "Salsa raï" — This track exemplifies Faudel's unique fusion of traditional raï rhythms with contemporary salsa influences, creating an infectious danceable vibe.
  • "Aveuglé par l'amour" — This poignant love ballad highlights Faudel's emotional vocal delivery and showcases the lyrical depth that characterizes much of the album.
  • "Paris - Le Caire" — The song reflects Faudel's multicultural roots, bridging the gap between French and Arab musical traditions while addressing themes of identity and belonging.

Release Date

February 6, 2001

Artist Origin

Morocco

Tracklist

  1. 1 Lila 3:54
  2. 2 Aveuglé par l'amour 3:50
  3. 3 La main dans la main 4:15
  4. 4 Salsa raï 4:12
  5. 5 Raha 3:57
  6. 6 Mantes-La-Jolie 3:23
  7. 7 Je me souviens 5:47
  8. 8 Couleurs de ton âme 4:00
  9. 9 Hanina 4:53
  10. 10 Rohi 3:53
  11. 11 Samra 4:23
  12. 12 Si tu le veux 3:35
  13. 13 Paris - Le Caire 5:00