5 quintessential raï tapes from Cheb Mimo’s collection

Algeria’s raï music didn’t just emerge—it erupted. Born on the streets of Oran in the 1920s, it started as a raw, rebellious cry against convention. Its name, which translates to “opinion,” says it all: this is music that speaks unapologetically. From the early days of Cheikhs and Cheikhas delivering unfiltered truths to the rise of Chebs and Chebbas in the ’70s and ’80s, raï has always belonged to those defying the status quo. Even bans couldn’t silence it. With its bold takes on taboo topics like love, sensuality, and rebellion, raï became the soundtrack for rule-breakers, powered by artists who refused to fade into the background.

Now, with raï’s unmistakable rhythms spilling far beyond North Africa for so many decades, we turned to NTS resident and genre aficionado Cheb Mimo for a deep dive into his essential raï picks. Whether you’re a seasoned crate-digger or just starting to dip your toes in, enjoy these picks from a true connoisseur, in his own words.

1. Cheb Hamid & Chaba Zohra – Ana Wiyak

What you’re getting:
Cheb Hamid and Chaba Zohra share a synergy that transcends the ordinary, placing them alongside legendary raï pairs like Cheb Sahraoui and Chaba Fadela, Chaba Zahouania and Cheb Hasni, or Cheb Khaled and his collaborators. Their combined energy is palpable, transforming any room into an impromptu dance floor.

What makes it special:
“Ana Wiyak” is one of those infectious raï anthems that commands your body to move and your voice to sing along, almost unconsciously. The lyrics of embody the spirit of raï—a celebration of love, camaraderie, freedom, and escapism. The chorus: Ana wiyak nasahrou lyoum, ana wiyak nisekrou lyoum (You and I will party tonight. You and I will get drunk tonight), encapsulates the genre’s hedonistic and liberating ethos, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the moment.

2. Chaba Nouria – Consulat

What you’re getting:
Chaba Nouria brings a modern twist to traditional raï with her innovative style, featuring drum machines, flute, bass, and enchanting vocals. The fusion of these elements is something that I always look for as I’m interested in the way musicians from North Africa have embraced modernity in technology and instruments. “Consulat” tackles the common raï theme of immigration, offering a poignant perspective on the experiences of those seeking a better life elsewhere.

What makes it special:
This track is a must-listen for anyone seeking a fresh take on raï music. It blends contemporary production with timeless themes. Despite her local superstar status, Nouria remains relatively unknown in the West, making her a hidden gem worth discovering.

3. Cheb Sahraoui – Aachki El Aouel (prod. by Rachid Baba Ahmed)

What you’re getting:
When you see Rachid Baba Ahmed’s name on a tape, you know it’s a guarantee of quality, and this release is no exception—it’s one of his finest works. “Aachki El Aouel” is a standout gem from the collaboration between Cheb Sahraoui, back then the rising star of raï, and legendary producer Rachid Baba Ahmed.

What makes it special:
Sahraoui’s captivating vocals are exalted by Baba Ahmed’s masterful touch on the synthesisers, creating a sonic tapestry that is both complex and mesmerising.

4. Cheb Hindi – A Moi la Liberté

What you’re getting:
When it comes to electronic raï music from the 80s, “A Moi la Liberté” by Cheb Hindi is an absolute must-have in my collection. I was initially intrigued by the very provocative cover, but once I hit play, I was completely absorbed by the electronic keyboards and unique style of the album.

What makes it special:
Cheb Hindi, who was given his stage name for his love of Bollywood movies, delivers a captivating performance that perfectly blends traditional raï elements with innovative electronic sounds. The result is a sonic experience that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking, encapsulating the spirit of liberation and experimentation that defined the era.

5. Cheb Hasni – Saadini

What you’re getting:
The tape era of raï music is indelibly marked by the incredible talent of Cheb Hasni, often referred to as the “rossignol” (nightingale) of raï. In his heartbreakingly short life—he was assassinated at just 24 years old—Hasni produced over 100 tapes, making him one of the most prolific artists ever.

What makes it special:
This particular tape, featuring the track “Saadini,” is a standout example of his genius. From start to finish, “Saadini” is beautifully arranged, showcasing Hasni’s signature sentimental style that touched the hearts of millions in Algeria and beyond. His emotive vocals and the intricate instrumentation create a deeply moving experience that resonates long after the music fades.

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