BIG SUMMER FEST 2025 transformed the shores of Zelená Voda into a musical paradise last weekend, delivering two electrifying days of performances by 25 international stars and five top Slovak bands. Yet among the unforgettable sets and roaring crowds, one moment stood out as truly historic.
ILYAH, the Moroccan American artist celebrated for his genre-blending sound and magnetic stage presence, made history as the first Moroccan American to perform at a major Slovak music festival of this scale. His set was more than just a performance — it was a cultural milestone that left the audience in awe.
In this exclusive Q&A, ILYAH reflects on the experience, the significance of representing both Morocco and the U.S. on a global stage, and how this moment marks a powerful new chapter in his fast-rising international career.
IMAGE: ILYAH
You just made history as the first Moroccan American artist to perform at a festival of this scale—what does that moment mean to you now that it’s happened?
It’s surreal, honestly. I grew up dreaming of being on stages like this, so to be THAT person now is just powerful. It means everything. It’s not just about me performing; it’s about representing a whole generation of people with layered identities like me. I carried my culture, my family, and every kid who ever felt like they had to choose between two worlds onto that stage with me. We made history together.
Looking back at your performance, how did it feel to bring your dual identity—Moroccan and American—to such a massive international stage?
It felt like coming full circle, really. I’ve always tried to bridge both sides of who I am, whether it’s sonically, visually, or emotionally. Being on that stage, in front of those thousands of people felt like I was seen in my entirety. Not half this or half that. but 100% both. And the love I got back from the crowd told me that being authentically yourself always resonates the loudest.
How did you infuse your cultural roots into the live show, and how did the audience respond to that representation?
One of the biggest moments was performing my newest single, YA DELLALI, featuring the Moroccan rap legend Don Bigg. I sang it in Arabic, in front of a crowd that mostly didn’t speak the language, and guess what?
They still vibed, danced, and connected with the energy of the song. That’s the power of music. It speaks to emotion before language. And that kind of moment creates curiosity. It gives people who’ve never heard Moroccan music a real experience, and it just might turn them into new fans of the genre. For me, that’s how culture spreads: through presence, passion, and unapologetic authenticity.
IMAGE: ILYAH
Big Summer Festival brought together a truly diverse crowd—how did you ensure your set resonated globally while staying true to your background?
I always say: the more specific you are, the more universal it becomes. I didn’t water anything down. I trusted the crowd to meet me where I’m at, and they did just that.
At the same time, I was intentional with the transitions, the pacing, and the messaging. I wanted people dancing, but I also wanted them hearing something new, a newer language and a newer sound. Imagine over 15,000 Eastern Europeans dancing to a song that got Cheb Hasni in the intro, me singing in Arabic and English while Don Bigg concludes it with his epic Darija bars. It was just insane!
Were there any surprises, special collaborations, or exclusive moments during your set that you were especially proud of?
Honestly, one of the most surreal and proud moments was performing right after the legendary Haddaway. I grew up hearing “What Is Love? Baby don’t hurt me” on the radio and in movies. Never in a million years did I think he’d be handing me the mic after his set. That moment alone was wild.
To top it off, right after I finished performing, I met the iconic group Aqua, known for “Barbie Girl”. They were up next. It literally felt like I stepped into a dream. Sharing a lineup with artists I grew up listening to? That’s a full-circle moment I’ll never forget.
You’ve performed in many places, but how did this experience compare to other stages you’ve been on in terms of energy, preparation, and scale?
This one hit different. The energy in Slovakia was wild. From the moment I stepped on stage, I felt like the entire crowd was with me. I prepared for weeks, even trained physically for the set, because I knew I had to give people a moment they wouldn’t forget. The scale, the sound, the visuals. Everything leveled up. But what made it special was the connection. It wasn’t just a show; it was a shared memory.
What do you hope young Moroccan and Moroccan American artists take away from seeing you hit such a major milestone?
I hope they see what’s possible. I want them to know you don’t have to erase parts of yourself to fit in. You don’t have to conform to be heard. Bring your culture, your language, and your truth, because the world is ready.
And if no one’s opened the door for you yet, break it down. You belong on every stage, in every space. No dream is too big when you stay rooted in who you are. Be proud of who you are. I’m proud of being American and proud of being Moroccan.
IMAGE: ILAY
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