The musical traditions of Algeria are combined with French cabaret by sensuous-voiced Berber singer Djamel Allam. The host of a popular music show on Algeria's Radio 3 International and the artistic director of the Vault cabaret in the Algerian suburb of Moretti, Allam continues to record his original songs in the Berber language. Since recording his 1974 debut album, Arjouth, a critical and commercial hit, Allam has become an international star, performing to sold-out audiences in large halls throughout Europe and North America. A native of Bougie, Algeria, Allam took the first steps toward stardom after temporarily moving to Marseilles, France, in 1967. Working as a machinist for the city's Theatre du Gymnasie, he was introduced to cabaret. After appearing in several cabaret shows with French vocalist Bernard Lavilliers, he moved to Paris and began performing in cabaret theaters on the Left Bank. Returning to Algeria in 1975, Allam continued to build on the success of his debut album. He recorded Les Reves Du Vent in 1978, Si Humane in 1981, and Salimo in 1985. Launching his own production company in 1985, Allam returned to Paris to record Mawlud in 1988. Le Chant des Sources followed in 1999. Gouraya, produced by Safy Boutella, was released in 2000. Allam|'s singing was featured in the Algerian movies Prends 10000 Balles et Casse-toi and La Plage des Enfants Perdus. He made his acting debut in the comic film Fort Saganne. ~ Craig Harris