Saïd Chalaban
musician
For one evening, Morocco is coming to MindFormers
In 2022, a new chapter began in Saïd Tichiti’s musical career. After more than two decades of artistic work, he continued his journey under a new name, with a new sound and new creative partners.
In his latest project, ancient Gnawa, Shaâbi, and Hassani melodies meet Western genres such as dub, funk, and psychedelic rock.
Chalaban was founded in Budapest in 1999 by Moroccan musician Saïd Tichiti. Their music combines Moroccan traditions with Central European, Balkan, and Roma musical elements. Their aim is to create a natural meeting point between the musical traditions of the South and North, East and West, resulting in a truly unique sound that builds bridges between cultures.
Throughout their career, they have released six albums and performed numerous concerts in Hungary, across Europe, and in Morocco. They have also played in some of North America’s largest cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Montreal, San Francisco, and New Orleans.
Their work has played an important role in introducing Moroccan musical culture to audiences in Central Europe.
In 2022, Saïd Tichiti opened a new chapter in his musical career: with a new name, a new sound, and new collaborators, he continues the journey he began more than two decades ago.
His latest project brings together ancient Gnawa, Chaâbi, and Hassani songs with Western genres such as dub, funk, and psychedelic rock. By drawing on the aesthetics of these contemporary styles while leaving room for improvisation and experimentation, Saïd leads the ancient traditions of the desert toward new horizons.
Born in southern Morocco to a Berber mother and a Black African father, Saïd moved to Hungary in 1998. One year later, he founded Chalaban together with local musicians.
Chalaban’s music organically blends Afro-Arab influences with the musical traditions and instrumentation of Central Europe.
During its more than twenty years of existence, the band has released six albums and performed extensively in Hungary, across Europe, and in Morocco, playing a key role in popularizing Moroccan musical traditions in Hungary and Central Europe.
The culmination of this period was a highly successful month-long tour across North America, with performances in major cities including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Montreal, San Francisco, and New Orleans.
