Zebda

Zebda is a French band from Toulouse known for fusing rock, reggae, and world music with socially conscious lyrics. Formed in the late 1980s, the group features a diverse lineup of musicians from immigrant backgrounds, and their songs often tackle issues like racism, identity, and political inequality in France. Their energetic sound and politically charged messages earned them both critical acclaim and a loyal following.

The band broke into the mainstream with their 1998 album Essence Ordinaire, which included the hit single "Tomber la chemise"—a catchy anthem that became a summer staple in France. Zebda is well-regarded not just for their musical talent but also for their activism, with members frequently engaging in community organizing and social justice campaigns. After a hiatus in the mid-2000s, they returned with new material, including 2014’s Comme des Cherokees, continuing their tradition of vibrant, socially engaged music.