Music by Innov Gnawa

2 pm

Based in New York, Innov Gnawa carries on the ancestral heritage of the musical tradition in Morocco. The Grammy-nominated group is led by Maalem Hassan Benjaafar along with Amino Belyamani, and Ahmed Jeriouda. Guembri, a three-stringed African bass, is played and accompanied by the qraqebs, metal castanets that represent the shackles and chains of slaves, and also singing chorus responses.

Gnawa music is a spiritual tradition rooted in Morocco’s ancient history. Often referred to as “Sufi Blues”, Gnawa’s African influence originated from West African slaves brought to Morocco centuries ago. Not unlike blues music in the American South, Gnawa music is revered throughout Morocco as treasured indigenous soul music.

“ The spirit of Gnawa is people.” - Maalem Hassan Benjaafar