Cheb Mami, born Mohamed Khelifati on July 11, 1966, in Saïda, Algeria, is a pivotal figure in popularizing raï music globally. His distinctive voice and innovative fusion of traditional Algerian sounds with genres like reggae, funk, and Latin music have captivated audiences worldwide. Mami's collaboration with Sting on the 1999 hit "Desert Rose" brought raï to international prominence. Throughout his career, he has worked with artists such as Zucchero and Susheela Raman, continually blending cultural influences to create a unique musical experience. ([britannica.com](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Cheb-Mami?utm_source=openai))