Once hailed as a digital icon of Arab pop, Moroccan singer Saad Lamjarred is now facing an unprecedented decline in online engagement, signaling a turning point in a once-glittering career.
Known globally for his 2015 megahit “Lm3allem”, which surpassed one billion views on YouTube, Lamjarred’s influence on streaming platforms has sharply waned. His latest single, “Zwina Bzaaf,” was released not on his main YouTube channel (which boasts over 13 million subscribers), but on a secondary and relatively unknown account—a surprising move that left many fans puzzled and speculating about internal conflicts.
Although the track remains true to Lamjarred’s rhythmic and catchy musical style, its reception has been underwhelming: only 1.5 million views in the first week—a far cry from the tens of millions he routinely attracted in the past.
Industry experts point to the long-running legal case in France as a major factor behind this decline. Lamjarred was convicted in 2023 by a French court for the rape of a young woman, and sentenced to six years in prison. He was released one month later on provisional bail, pending an appeal that is set to be heard in Paris from June 2 to June 6, 2025.
The controversy has not only polarized his fan base but also reignited ethical debates on separating an artist’s work from their personal conduct.
In response to the fading visibility, Lamjarred took to social media, accusing YouTube of applying technical restrictions on his content due to the legal situation. He called it “targeted suppression”, arguing that it doesn’t reflect the loyalty of his fans. He also downplayed the role of digital statistics, emphasizing strong attendance at his live concerts as proof of continued support.
Despite these claims, the digital momentum that once fueled his dominance is clearly faltering. His image, once defined by innovation and broad appeal, is now overshadowed by a courtroom narrative that threatens to define the next chapter of his career.
With the upcoming appeal in Paris, Lamjarred stands at a critical crossroads, attempting to reinvent himself through more introspective music and artistic maturity. However, the shadow of legal proceedings may continue to hinder any lasting comeback.