Houari makes a strong comeback with the release of Insomnia, his third solo album. A polished project highlighted by one major collaboration: a track featuring Jul, the undisputed icon of the Marseille rap scene. A former key member of the Ghetto Phénomène collective, Houari, like Jul, helped pioneer the sunny, feel-good sound that defines southern French rap today.
Much like early 2000s West Coast rap shaped by the rise of Aftermath, the Marseille sound now embodies the summery spirit of a vibrant, gritty city. During his appearance on Clique, Jul even noted that this distinctive vibe had reached as far as Sweden.
Speaking with Hypesoul, Houari shared:
“I started rapping in Marseille with the guys from Ghetto Phénomène. Rap helped me overcome the stutter I had as a kid.”
He now unveils the video for “Tana”, a radiant collaboration with Jul that fully embraces the Marseille DNA: infectious hooks, warm melodies, and a party-ready vibe.
Houari and Jul team up on “Tana”!
The beat for “Tana” is produced by Djazzi and DNL, as credited on Spotify. Djazzi is a renowned producer known for hits like “Bazardée” by Keblack and “Complètement sonné”, as well as “À midi” for Naza. With its upbeat tempo, this track perfectly captures a summer mood.
In “Tana”, the two rappers paint a raw portrait of today’s “Zlatanas”—a mix of bling, parties, and toxic behavior. A classic rap theme that echoes the iconic punchline: “She gives her body before her name.”
The music video was directed by Gold Vizion Production, known for their festive aesthetic and signature visuals, including the video for “Ninetta” by AM La Scampia.
