T.O.X

T.O.X. (Theory of Xistence or نظرية الوجود) remains at the forefront of contemporary Algerian artists engaged in the promotion of Hip Hop in Algeria and abroad. Creative and innovative in their lyrics, songs and videos, this rap duo from Oran has evolved through different periods, trends, styles since their beginnings in 1996 to the present day. Comprised of two brothers, Malik (aka Cheik Malik alias Fada Vex) and Anis Bourbia (aka Banis alias Machine Gun), the pioneering duo is well-known in Algeria for representing “The Other Algerian Rap,” that is, hip hop beyond the capital of Algiers. Inspired by the foundations of the New York rap scene, T.O.X. have remained faithful to the spirit of those Hip Hop purists and remain open to the music of the old and new world while representing Algeria’s rich musical patrimony. Hailing from a city known worldwide as the birthplace of raï music, T.O.X. put Oran on the Hip Hop map of Algeria, beginning with the Wahrap album (the first oranais rap compilation ever released).

T.O.X.’s relevance to the aims and objectives of the Center Stage program is obvious. Having attained crucial experience from nearly 20 years in the music industry including manifold collaborations with artists from diverse backgrounds and participation in several musical events abroad (in Europe, and the USA), T.O.X. continues to perform, organize and participate in concerts across the country as well as release new material thus continuing the long tradition of Algerian Hip Hop (indeed Algerian rap was the first rap in Arabic anteceding the rap in countries such as Palestine, Morocco, Tunisia, Lebanon, etc.).