Oum Biography: Age, Net Worth, Career, Albums, Songs, Parents, Husband, Instagram

Oum El Ghaït Benessahraoui, known professionally as Oum, is a Moroccan singer-songwriter celebrated for her innovative fusion of traditional Moroccan music with jazz, soul, gospel, afrobeat, and Sufi influences.

Rising to prominence with her debut album Lik’Oum in 2009, she has become an ambassador of Moroccan culture, performing across North Africa, Europe, and beyond.

Her distinctive voice, elaborate head wraps, and socially conscious lyrics have earned her a global following and critical acclaim.

Profile

• Full Name: Oum El Ghaït Benessahraoui
• Stage Name: Oum
• Born: 18 April 1978
• Age: 47 years old
• Birthplace: Casablanca, Morocco
• Nationality: Moroccan
• Occupation: Singer-Songwriter, Composer
• Height: Unknown
• Parents: Mr. Benessahraoui and Mrs. Benessahraoui
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Unknown
• Children: None
• Relationship: Single
• Net Worth: $1–2 million

Early Life and Education

Oum El Ghaït Benessahraoui was born on April 18, 1978, in Casablanca, Morocco, to Mr. Benessahraoui and Mrs. Benessahraoui though their real names are not publicly known.

Details about her siblings are not publicly known.

She grew up in Marrakech and studied architecture for five years at the National School of Architecture in Rabat but chose not to complete her final exams, pursuing music instead.

Her ethnicity reflects a blend of Arab and Sahrawi heritage, and while she identifies as a devout Muslim.

Career

Oum began her musical journey at 14, joining a gospel choir in Casablanca, where her powerful voice drew attention.

At 17, she wrote her first song, “This Is Your Heart”, for the charity Les Malades du Cœur, earning her a television appearance.

In 1998, she explored hip-hop and R&B with producer Djo Catangana, and in 2002, French manager Philippe Delmas invited her to record in Paris.

Returning to Morocco in 2004, she embraced Gnaoua and Hassani traditions, performing with fusion artist Barry at festivals like Gnaoua World Music in Essaouira and Tanjazz in Tangier.

Her debut album, Lik’Oum (2009), marked her rise to fame in Morocco.

Oum’s international breakthrough came with Soul of Morocco (2013), a soul-jazz album that showcased her ability to blend North African rhythms with global influences.

Her 2015 album Zarabi, recorded live in the Sahara Desert, paid tribute to M’Hamid El Ghizlane’s carpet weavers and featured Cuban and Moroccan musicians like Yacir Rami and Rhani Krija.

She performed at prestigious events, including UNESCO’s International Women’s Day concert in 2012 and WOMEX, earning millions of YouTube views.

Her 2019 album Daba, directed by Palestinian oudist Kamilya Jubran, introduced electronic elements while addressing themes like environmental degradation and women’s rights.

Oum’s influence endures through her 2024 live album Dakchi, recorded in Marrakech, which reimagines songs from her previous works and introduces three new tracks.

Her performances, marked by vibrant stage presence and polyrhythmic melodies, continue to bridge Moroccan heritage with global sounds.

Collaborations with artists like Yacir Rami and appearances at festivals like Mawazine highlight her versatility.

As a feminist and environmental advocate, her music reflects a commitment to cultural unity and social change, resonating with diverse audiences worldwide.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @oum_music
• Facebook Handle: OUM
• Twitter Handle: @OumOfficiel

Personal Life

Oum keeps her personal life private, with no publicly confirmed spouse or romantic partners.

She has no known children.

A devout Muslim who values independence, she has spoken about defying stereotypes, choosing not to wear a headscarf while embracing her African and Arab identity.

Discography

• Lik’Oum (2009)
• Sweerty (2012)
• Soul of Morocco (2013)
• Zarabi (2015)
• Daba (2019)
• Dakchi (2024)

Net Worth

Oum’s estimated net worth ranges between $1 million and $2 million.

Her income derives primarily from album sales, international tours, and festival performances.

Social media presence, YouTube revenue, and occasional media projects also contribute to her financial success.