Raspigaous is a French reggae/ska band formed in 1997 in the Panier neighborhood of Marseille. The band quickly stood out from the local scene with their contagious choruses (such as Sers le Jaune, Vitrolles, Fumo, Zappe) and began a series of concerts. In 1999, after a nationwide tour, they released their first album Chaud Time, which sold over 30,000 copies, marking the start of their growing success. The band continued to perform at concerts and festivals, and in 2002, they released their second album Chiens des quais, which solidified their ability to compose major hits, including Le Panier, Contrôle d’identité, and Les leaders du monde.
Raspigaous is a festive and socially engaged group, with lyrics written by Lionel LEO Achenza, the band’s leader. Their songs portray social realities with humor, irony, and simplicity.
In 2005, they released Mauvaise Herbe, featuring equally addictive tracks like L’arapède, Chars & Soldats, and Bienvenue. This was followed by a national tour that solidified Raspigaous’ name across France. After an 8-year hiatus, Lionel LEO Achenza released a 4-track EP Haut & Fort with the powerful song 7 milliards et des poussières, recorded in Marseille.
In 2019, the band entered Studio K (13) to record Nouvel R, an album infused with groove and conscious lyrics.
In 2023, Raspigaous released their album 25 ans de live, a compilation of the band’s greatest hits in live versions.