Kader Japonais

About

Abdel Kader Haiboui, known as Kader Japonais, is an Algerian Raï singer and production artist born on March 11, 1979, in Bab-El-Oued, Algiers. Rising to fame in the 2000s with his hit single "Jibou la Brigade," he gained further recognition in the 2010s with popular tracks like "Nti Sbabi" and "Waalach." Kader Japonais blends raï with chaabi, Arabic pop, and other Maghreb musical styles, creating a diverse repertoire of slow-paced love songs and energetic dance tracks. Despite holding a law degree, he turned to music due to a lack of job opportunities. His stage name "Japonais" refers to his epicanthic fold, giving him a resemblance to Japanese people. Kader has performed extensively in Algeria and internationally, including notable appearances at the Zénith de Paris and the Mawazine festival in Rabat. His collaborations include Cheb Nasro and Rim'K, and his discography features albums like La Brigade and Hkaya.