It is with extreme sadness that we learned that Kabyl music legend Cherif Kheddam passed away. He died on January 23rd in a Paris hospital following a long sickness. Cherif Kheddam was someone we could call a master of Kabyl music. Not only he modernized Kabyl music but he trained so many young singers that rose to fame such as Ferhat, Nouara, etc. He is leaving us but he is leaving a monumental heritage to be enjoyed by many many generations. Each one of his songs is a creation. He touched on everything that touched Kabyl life. From life's hardships to emigration, from Algeria to Kabyl heritage and from the forbidden love to women's rights. His repertory was vast and his lyrics always measured. Many of his fans would have a hard time picking a favorite song. Above all it is the music. His music brings something to the soul. 
Our thoughts go to his family and loved ones. They go also to the Amazigh people as a whole as we mourn the loss of another pillar of Amazigh culture. May the younger generations cherish Dda Cherif's work and use it as an inspiration.
Dda Cherif, we are sad to see you go. Your songs and music were a part of our lives and will remain so as long as we live.
Ḥsen Larbi