Who is 7liwa?
7liwa, whose real name is Ihab Iqbal, is a well-known Moroccan rapper who has made a significant impact on the hip-hop scene. His journey in the rap industry began around 2010, and he is credited as one of the first artists to successfully merge Moroccan Darija with various modern musical styles. His unique approach quickly gained him widespread recognition, particularly due to his bold and raw storytelling that reflects life in the streets and urban culture.
Musical Style and Influence
7liwa is known for his sharp lyricism, fearless expression, and fast-paced delivery. His music resonates not only in Morocco but also internationally, with some of his most famous tracks including “Adidas”, “Ould Fatima”, and many others. His ability to blend contemporary rap with traditional Moroccan influences has helped elevate the artistic quality of Moroccan hip-hop.
Beyond his musical prowess, 7liwa played a crucial role in pushing Moroccan rap forward, setting new artistic standards, and introducing fresh perspectives. His fearless approach allowed him to tackle sensitive social issues, such as corruption, unemployment, and political struggles. This boldness made him one of the most respected figures in the genre.
A Mentor and Leader in Moroccan Rap
7liwa’s influence extends beyond his music. He has been a role model for many rising Moroccan rappers, teaching them how to use rap as a tool for storytelling and activism. His impact was further solidified through his role as a founding member of Zaoua City, a rap collective based in Casablanca. This group became a crucial part of the city’s hip-hop movement, nurturing young talents who later became stars in their own right—artists like ElGrande Toto, Anconny, and Drizzy emerged from this movement.
The “Beef” with Algerian Rappers
One of 7liwa’s most notable moments in his career was his involvement in the rap beef between Moroccan and Algerian artists. This rivalry ignited a wave of diss tracks from both sides, bringing unprecedented attention to Arabic rap and sparking discussions across North Africa. Through his bold participation, 7liwa helped elevate Moroccan rap on a regional and even international scale, proving that hip-hop in the Arab world could be just as competitive and influential as in Western countries.
Cultural Impact
7liwa is more than just a rapper—he has become a cultural icon within the Arab hip-hop scene. His work transcends music, reflecting the realities of urban youth, addressing taboo topics, and inspiring a new generation of artists to use their voices to challenge the status quo. His contribution to Moroccan rap has left a lasting legacy, making him one of the most important figures in the evolution of the genre.
