Chapter 3. Blue.

19th of August,

Abdul el Gnoui, The Musician.

"It was my third day in Morocco.
I had seen this people in my dreams, but when the moment came, I was paralyzed by the beauty of life.
Pure people. Free Men. Music is everything for them.
A part of me was left in the black dessert.

I will come back for you. I promise."

Khamlia is located in south-eastern Morocco. Specifically in the shadow of the Erg Chebbi. For over a hundred years it has been inhabited by a mix of Berber, Arab and different tribes of Sub-Saharan origin. In Khamlia most are the Bambara tribe. Also called Gnawas, this is how they call the descendants of slaves from black Africa.

In the past the villagers living by working in the fields and oasis for rich farmers earned. They were herders of camels and goats. Now they are especially famous for our hospitality and our Gnawa music.
Khamlia Gnawa music or Gnaoua music has its origins in sub-Saharan Africa. Slaves from Senegal, Sudan and Mali brought her there. The Gnawa music that they play in Khamlia is a type of very famous and special music. It is a mix of Bambara, Berber and Arabic languages. When they act and sing, they move the whole body except the head.

Gnawa music is a kind of sophistry. This is of great socio-psychological importance. Music plays an important role in their daily lives. This music can be used to help cure diseases, and to go into a trance and make contact with the other world.

JESUS RODRIGUEZ LLUCH