By John Moverley edited by Riad Beladi
Soolking’s rise from the streets of Algiers to global stardom is one of the most remarkable success stories in modern music. His songs fill arenas in Paris, Dubai, Montreal, and beyond, and his streaming numbers place him among the most influential Francophone artists of his generation. Yet, despite the success, the acclaim, and the international lifestyle available to him, Soolking remains unmistakably, unapologetically Algerian.
His fame has never diluted his identity; instead, it has amplified it. The more his music travels, the more he seems to centre himself in the culture that shaped him. This duality—global reach, local roots—is what makes him unique in today’s music industry.
A Childhood That Never Leaves You
Born Abderraouf Derradji, Soolking grew up surrounded by the raw energy of Algerian youth culture. From early days of performing in local crews to embracing the rhythms of raï, chaabi, and North African rap, his musical DNA is inseparable from the sounds of home. Even after moving to France to expand his career, he carried this foundation with him.
For Soolking, Algeria is not a nostalgic idea but a living, breathing influence. His accent, his slang, his melodies, his beats—all of them continue to carry the colours of the country where he first fell in love with music.
Fame Without Forgetting the Origins
Many artists, once they achieve global recognition, naturally drift into environments far removed from their origins. High-end circles, international collaborations, and the pace of world tours can create a distance from home.
Soolking never let that happen.
He returns regularly, collaborates with Algerian producers, supports local talent, and promotes young artists who remind him of his own beginnings. Whether performing in Europe or speaking in interviews, he never hesitates to mention Algeria, often calling it his “spine” and “anchor”.
This loyalty is not a public-relations strategy; it is a reflection of the humility and authenticity that shaped him long before success did.
A Circle That Stays the Same
In an industry known for rapid shifts in friendships and alliances, Soolking’s inner circle remains remarkably stable. He continues to spend time with people from his early life—friends, artists, and collaborators who supported him before he became a worldwide phenomenon.
These are the people who saw him as Raouf, not the superstar Soolking. They kept him grounded, and he kept them close.
It is this loyalty that fans often point to as one of his most admirable traits. It reflects a cultural value deeply rooted in Algerian society: you do not forget the people who stood by you when you had nothing.
Pride in Culture, Not Distance From It
Unlike some artists who soften their identity to appeal to global audiences, Soolking does the opposite. He highlights his heritage. He brings Algerian dance, fashion, and slang into the mainstream. He blends international genres with Maghrebi rhythm. His visuals proudly incorporate symbols of North African youth culture.
In a world where uniformity often dominates, Soolking stands out precisely because he refuses to dilute himself.
A Message to the Youth
Perhaps the most powerful element of Soolking’s loyalty to Algeria is the message it sends to the younger generation: you can conquer the world without abandoning where you come from.
He embodies the idea that success does not require erasing one’s background. Instead, it can be built upon it.
For many Algerian youths—whether in Algiers, Oran, Tizi Ouzou, or among the diaspora in Paris and London—Soolking is more than a musician. He is proof that talent combined with perseverance can cross borders, and that identity is a strength, not an obstacle.
Rooted, Global, and Proud
At a time when fame often creates distance, Soolking has done the opposite. He expanded his world without shrinking his origins. He embraced global platforms without letting go of Algerian soil. He became international without ever ceasing to be local.
In the end, Soolking’s greatest success is not only his music but the example he sets:
that true greatness does not require leaving your people behind, and that pride in one’s roots can travel further than any passport ever could.