Zebda

A band from Toulouse, France, combining reggae, ska, rock and raï and much more. The band is led by three singers originally from Morocco. Most of their lyrics have a political content, addressing issues such as the discrimination against Arab immigrants. The band was formed in 1985 and split in 2003. Key songs include: Tomber La Chemise (Take Off Your Shirt) - The summer hit in many European countries that propelled Zebda into the forefront. Motivés - Their political 'anthem', with which has a political party, called 'Motivé-e-s' which ran for the city council elections of Toulouse (they got about 15%). Le Bruit Et L'Odeur (The noise and smell) - Probably the sharpest song written in response to French President Jacques Chirac's words that arabic immigrants make only noise, smell and don't get a job (Chirac was IN office at the time). Albums: L'Aréne des Rumeurs (1992) Le Bruit Et L'Odeur (1995) Essence Ordinaire (1998) - about 300 000 copies sold Utopie D'Occase (2002) La Tawa (2003) - Live album with bonus DVD Members: Magyd Cherfi - vocal Mouss et Hakim Amokrane - vocal Pascal Cabero - guitar Joël Saurin - bass guitar Rémi Sanchez - keyboard Vincent Sauvage - drums