Les Filles de Illighadad Inigradan (2016)
Illighadad is a secluded village in the Tahoua Region of Niger, located on the southern edge of the Sahara Desert. While its surroundings resemble the typical Sahara-Sahel transition zone, characterized by arid landscapes, sparse vegetation, rocky outcrops and dry riverbeds, Illighadad stands out for one reason.
The village has gained international acclaim for its innovative contributions to Tuareg music, particularly the subgenre known as “desert blues.” At the heart of this musical renaissance is Fatou Seidi Ghali, one of the first Tuareg women to play the guitar publicly—a role traditionally reserved to men. Along with her all-female band, Les Filles de Illighadad, she has challenged gender norms and redefined the musical landscape.
Les Filles de Illighadad seamlessly blend Tende rhythms with hypnotic guitar melodies and their wonderful singing. Take the track “Inigradan” as an example: it’s simple, meditative and profoundly beautiful: a song one could listen to until the end of time.
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