Saha Dahmane (1980)

"Ya Rayah" is a musical portrait of Dahmane El Harrachi, the Algerian musician who gained international recognition for his song "Ya Rayah," later covered by Rachid Taha. A skilled banjo player, El Harrachi initially pushed the boundaries of traditional Algiers Chaâbi music, facing resistance from some. He ultimately became a respected figure in the genre, alongside artists like El Hadj M'hamed El Anka and Boudjemaâ El Ankis. The film celebrates his music and legacy, while also depicting the friendships he shared with fellow musicians during a vibrant period for Algerian Chaâbi. Shot with the help of his musician friends, "Ya Rayah" offers an intimate glimpse into El Harrachi’s life before his death in a 1980 car accident. It's a tribute to a legendary artist and a look at music's ability to connect people across cultures.