Singing Sensation Khaled Interviewed

2005-04-04

Rai singer Khaled spoke with magharebia.com about the most challenging moments in his career and gives advice to young singers striving to make a name for themselves in the highly competitive music business.

[AFP] Khaled

Why did you choose to sing a duet with Carlos Santana? What, in your opinion, would be the impact of such an experience on your own career?

It eventually came down to a natural choice. I sang with the "King of Rock 'n Roll," he sang with the "King of Rai"! It was a very interesting experience. On a personal level, we have a lot in common. We both come from poor families and have had a passion for music since our youth. From an artistic standpoint, we both like rock music. Mixing our styles was an odd experience which I am ready and willing to do again with Santana. I always enjoyed rock 'n roll. When I was young, I used to listen to Elvis Presley a lot!

Do other rai singers like Cheb Mami represent competition on the musical scene?

I don't think so. Each and every singer has got his own style. Even if Cheb Mami sings rai as I do, our styles are fairly different.

What was the most difficult moment in your career and how did you manage to overcome it?

As everyone, I have experienced some very difficult moments, but I am still here. I was really shocked when some people called me a traitor when I chose to live in France … but I don't want to talk about bad memories and hard times. I now feel very comfortable with my career and even aim for more success. You know, difficult moments may come and go, but I'll still be the same.

What is the secret of your success and what would you recommend to young singers?

The key to success is a lot of patience, will and effort. As far as rai is concerned, I would recommend singing real deep feelings rather than trying to feel what is sung. After all, lyrics and words are nothing more than feelings translated into music and singing. This would probably be my advice to young rai singers.

When will your next album be released and what will the style be?

I don't know exactly when, but rather soon. It will give my audience an opportunity to hear me sing a different style. Let me add that this album will present another duet, on which we are currently working.

Do you see any evolution in rai, such as mixing or melding with other musical styles?

More and more singers try to sing duets with singers from different musical traditions. Rai is no exception to the rule! We can hear rai mixed with oriental, rock or Spanish music. Though, it is hard to say that each combination so far has been successful. This kind of mixing needs a lot of attention and thinking. Voices and lyrics are also important. It requires a lot of work and selection. But all in all, I think rai is a style that can be combined with other styles.

What has been the role of your family in your musical career?

My father never wanted me to become a singer. He had a lot of hopes for me. I remember when I was a child back in Oran, he was furious each time he knew I had been singing at weddings. I think he would have liked me to be an architect or a doctor. You know, in a poor family like mine, planning to be a singer is always negatively perceived. My mother always supported me in spite of some reservations. She has had a major influence on my artistic and personal life.