Photography © Unknown
Photography © Unknown
"My career goal is to be an international rapper.
This is the real success."
"My career goal is to be an
international rapper.
This is the real success."
If you’re a fan of Moroccan Rap, you're likely familiar with the name 7liwa. This rapper stands out in the Top 10 of the most influential Moroccan rappers from the Maghrebin music scene, thanks to his unique style and the millions of views he amasses on YouTube and streaming platforms.
7liwa burst onto the scene in 2013 with the video 'Da7k T9ada'. Since then, he has been on a creative journey, consistently delivering his best to his audience. The same year, he released his second song, 'Batal l3alam', a 10-minute song without any chorus that became a reference in the Moroccan Rap Game. 7liwa's career steadily rose from that point, marked by numerous collaborations with artists such as Lartiste, Shayfeen, Mister You, and many others.
A Rap & A Cup Of Tea met this iconic rapper, who told us about his dazzling success, ambitions, and future projects. There is no doubt that 7liwa is an artist to follow.
What’s the meaning behind your pseudo 7liwa?
My journey as 7liwa began in my school days when my friends affectionately bestowed this nickname upon me. I found it a fantastic moniker, and it soon became more recognisable than my real name. '7liwa' is a term that signifies sweetness and sociability, and it's a name that has become synonymous with my artistry.
You’ve had a lot of success in Morocco. How do you feel about that? Is it not too difficult to handle?
Success is not easy to manage, especially when you are young... Actually, I don’t feel different when I’m with my people, but when I go out, it’s another thing... Some fans love asking you for selfies, etc. All of this is not that difficult to handle, to be honest, but you indeed have to put aside your privacy. You became famous thanks to your exceptional freestyles like with 'Batal l3alam'...
How do you find all this inspiration?
A diverse range of sources deeply influences my creative process. American rappers and historical movies play a significant role in shaping my art. When I step into the studio, inspiration flows naturally. I don’t need to force it. The beats guide me, and I start to envision the lyrics and the message I want to convey. And then, I add my unique '7liwa touch', a secret ingredient that sets my music apart.
We often see you alongside many rappers like Lartiste, Soolking, and Shayfeen. Is it essential for you to collaborate with other artists for your following projects?
Collaborations are always meaningful. I will soon release my second album, which features several world-famous, excellent artists. For now, I don’t think I have a “dream featuring” in mind... but it could change, who knows.
The song ‘Safi’ is a very touching one... Is it difficult for you to open yourself that much through the lyrics?
The song ‘Safi’ is a favourite from my last album, La Street, released in 2019. It’s a piece that resonates with me, and I find comfort in sharing my emotions through it. Opening up through lyrics is not a daunting task for me. It’s a natural part of my creative process. I don’t consider it 'too easy' or 'too difficult', but rather a unique expression.
Your clips generate millions of views, and the visuals are always of a high standard. Is it you behind the creative process of the making of?
A long time ago, I was into audio-visual stuff and did lots of directing, allowing me to work with many directors on my projects. I guess it helped me get better results regarding visuals and creativity. But at first, I did everything myself without anyone’s help.
You have more than 197 million views on YouTube, which is enormous. Do you think sharing music via YouTube in Morocco is more accessible than other streaming platforms?
Yes, I think so. Here, in Morocco, people are more inclined to go on YouTube; I couldn’t explain why. Things started to evolve gradually, and now we also go on streaming platforms, but YouTube was our primary broadcasting platform.
Is it essential for you to develop your career internationally?
Of course, it is. My career goal is to be international; in my opinion, this is a real success. It’s essential for me to develop my career and reach an international audience. I also think that being broadcast internationally is a double benefit because it’s beneficial not only for me but also for the Moroccan music industry and the rest of the country.
What do you prefer, being on stage or in the studio?
I’d say the scene. I instead prefer being on stage with my mate. It’s an entirely different atmosphere and mood. It’s lit to be on stage to meet the fans.
What’s next?
I will release my single 'Dalé' soon enough and then drop my second album.
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