By John Owoo
(Agadir – Morocco)
Ivorian reggae icon Alpha Blondy used his appearance at the ongoing Timitar Music Festival to reflect on humanity, culture, and the enduring relevance of reggae music, offering philosophical insights drawn from decades of artistic and personal experience.
Speaking to journalists at the plush Hilton Hotel, the veteran musician described himself as a “simple village child,” grounding his global success in modest beginnings. For Blondy, fame does not redefine heroism. Instead, he insisted that true heroes are the audiences who sustain artists through their loyalty and presence. “Without the public, an artist has no value,” he noted, underscoring the reciprocal bond between performer and listener.
Blondy also highlighted linguistic diversity as central to his music. Known for blending multiple languages in his songs, the reggae legend explained that multilingualism helps him reach wider audiences across borders and cultures. According to him, language is not merely a tool of expression but a bridge for mutual learning and self-discovery, allowing people from different backgrounds to recognize themselves in shared human experiences.
The artist reserved special praise for Morocco, a country he credits with playing a crucial role in the early stages of his career. Blondy expressed gratitude to the North African nation, noting that Morocco contributed significantly to his international breakthrough. Beyond music, he acknowledged the country’s diplomatic role in helping stabilize the political situation in Côte d’Ivoire, underscoring Morocco’s broader influence in the region.
Regarding the future of reggae, Blondy dismissed claims that the genre is fading or outdated. He maintained that reggae remains an enduring form of expression as long as injustice, poverty, and war persist worldwide. Rooted in spirituality, he described God as the “backbone” of reggae, framing the music as both a form of resistance and a moral compass.
Addressing contemporary debates, Blondy also shared his thoughts on artificial intelligence. He rejected the notion of AI as alien or unnatural, describing it instead as a natural product of the human brain. In his view, technological advancement is part of humanity’s ongoing evolution, designed to extend human capacity rather than replace it.
