Abderhmane Kirouche, professionally known as Paco, enjoyed a remarkable musical career, marked by his collaboration with the legendary Jimi Hendrix. His journey began with his involvement in the group Jil Jilala, where he honed his skills as a musician before joining Nass El Ghiwane in 1971.
As a member of Nass El Ghiwane, Abderhmane Kirouche brought a distinctive Gnaoui influence to the group, which was further enhanced by his exceptional Guembri playing skills. He also demonstrated his compositional prowess, crafting numerous pieces that showcased his musical genius.
Throughout his career, Abderhmane Kirouche was recognized for his outstanding talent, earning the esteemed title of Mâalem in 1964. His contributions to the group were immense, and he played a vital role in shaping the band's unique sound.
However, Abderhmane Kirouche's tenure with Nass El Ghiwane came to an abrupt end in 1993, following a disagreement with Omar Sayed. Undeterred, he went on to form his own group, featuring his children, but unfortunately, he fell ill and was unable to continue his musical pursuits.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Abderhmane Kirouche was also a skilled carpenter and even appeared in the film Transes. Despite his remarkable accomplishments, Abderhmane Kirouche's later years were marked by poverty and illness, prompting King Mohammed VI to grant him a monthly pension of 30,000 Dirhams until his passing.
In his later years, Abderhmane Kirouche continued to perform at the Gnaoua Festival in his hometown of Essaouira, a testament to his enduring legacy as a master musician.
