Mythical figure in the group Nass el Ghiwane, Paca has contributed to the public awareness of Gnawi culture and its development in the 1970s. Born in 1948 in Essaouira, he grew up in a Gnawi environment. He was initiated by some of the great masters such as Maâlem Benthami and he became a Maâlem himself in 1964. He developed his style from memorable and sometimes unusual encounters. In 1966 he briefly joined the Living Theatre then two years later met the legendary Jimi Hendrix. But it was in the early 70s that he became a familiar figure in the eyes of the Moroccan public when he joined the group Jil Jilala and then Nass el Ghiwane. He co-wrote the unforgettable hit Assinia which won the gold disk award in 1970. His wish to spread the knowledge of Gnawa music abroad has led him to meet diverse musicians such as Toure Kunda among others. He has performed at many festivals in Morocco, Europe and Canada.
