1, 2, 3 Soleils

Originally, the trio was supposed to consist of Khaled, Faudel, and Cheb Mami, but at the time, Mami was signed to a record label that was a competitor of Khaled and Faudel's (Universal Music) and was unable to participate in the project. He was replaced by Rachid Taha. This unique concert took place at the Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy on September 26, 1998, and was released as an album by Barclay that same year. The concert, which featured a number of Algerian classics and the most famous songs by these three artists, sung solo, in duets or in trios—from Aicha (Khaled) sung by Faudel and Khaled, to Ya Rayah (Taha) bringing together all three singers—combined classical instruments (strings and brass), traditional (darbouka, bendir, Arabic flute) and modern instruments (bass, guitar), under the leadership of producer Steve Hillage, former guitarist and singer with the band Gong, who plays solo and rhythm guitar.

Directed by Don Kent, 1, 2, 3 Soleils leans on a strong ensemble — Cheb Khaled, Rachid Taha, Faudel — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about music titles of 1999.