Imhotep

Pascal Perez, better known as Imhotep, is an Algerian-born French record producer and composer celebrated for his influential role in the French hip hop scene. Born on May 19, 1960, in Algiers, he became one of the founding members and the sound architect of the iconic Marseille hip hop group IAM. Imhotep's work is notable for blending hip hop with Mediterranean, North African, and Oriental musical influences, creating a distinctive sound that helped shape French rap's identity. Beyond IAM, he has an impressive solo career with albums like *Blue Print* and *Kheper*, which mix elements of lounge, reggae, dub, and gnawa music, reflecting his broad musical sensibility and deep connection to Moroccan and North African rhythms.

Before fully diving into music, Imhotep worked as a school teacher, but his passion for diverse music genres—from blues and funk to electronic beats—led him to become a pioneer of beat-making in France. He also founded his own label, Kif-Kif Production, which has been instrumental in promoting the Marseille rap scene through projects like *Chroniques de Mars*. Imhotep continues to be a respected figure in French music, known for his innovative production and rich cultural fusion.

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