Sami El Maghrebi

Sami El Maghrebi

Moroccan Musician

Personal Information

Birth Name: Salimun Amzaj

Born: 1922, Safi, Morocco

Died: 2008, Montreal, Canada

Citizenship: Morocco

Stage Name: Sami El Maghrebi

Instruments: Oud, Vocals

Notable Instrument: Oud

Profession: Singer

Languages: Arabic, Amazigh

Active Years: 1940 - 2008

Sami's Early Years

Born Salimun Amzaj in 1922 in the port city of Safi overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. His mother passed away when he was only 14 years old, and he was the youngest of three siblings. His father moved with his children to the city of Salé in 1926, where Sami began learning Andalusian Arabic music and playing the oud. He studied at the music institute in Casablanca under the guidance of masters of the Malhoun genre.

Meeting His Wife

He learned to play the oud, an instrument that would remain with him throughout his life. At the age of 21, he met Masoudi Cohen, a Moroccan Jewish woman. Masoudi recalls the beautiful moments when Sami would play the oud all night long in their home, sparking a love story that would last for years.

Musical Success

After returning from France, Sami began performing as a singer at the "Redwan" nightclub in Rabat, quickly gaining a large following. He moved to Casablanca, had four more children, and became wealthy from record sales. The royal palace of King Mohammed V invited him to private concerts.

Rumors and Love Story

Rumors spread about a romantic relationship he had with a lady from the elite class in Morocco. However, King Mohammed V defended him, believed his story, and advised him to leave Morocco to protect his reputation.

Migration to France

In 1955, Sami El Maghrebi left Morocco for France, where he spent some time and contributed to enriching the Moroccan music scene with his distinctive songs.

Relationship with Moroccan Kings

Sami El Maghrebi enjoyed a special relationship with King Mohammed V and performed at royal palace events.

Death

Sami El Maghrebi passed away in 2008 at the age of 86 in Montreal, Canada. Many members of the Moroccan community in Canada attended his funeral, and the chief rabbi of the Moroccan community in Canada, David Sabah, was present.