Multilingual Code Switching in Algerian Rap Song Lyrics: A Functional Approach

The use of multilingual lyrics in contemporary rap songs is a recurrent phenomenon Algeria. If the are articulated through Algerian Arabic as “base language,” rappers saturate them with other languages for sake producing linguistically mixed songs. most frequently used code-switching Standard Arabic, Berber (Tamazight), French, English and Spanish. These often embedded (CS) where each language assumes particular discourse pragmatic function. Therefore, this investigation aims to explore recent CS songs, basically identify functions that fulfils song lyrics. Indeed, analysis mainly qualitative. A corpus 10 from five was collected analysed. researchers applied Gumperz's (1982) Appel Muysken’s (2005) CS. This research answers following question: What songs? included produced period extending 2019 2021. findings reveal concerned underpinned by strategic positioning issued based on social representations specify sociolinguistic space concerning socio-cultural considerations. distinct set identified: 1) convenience, 2) identifying or drawing attention addressees, 3) serving marker social/cultural identity, 4) complying norms, 5) facilitating rhyme. study can act an asset anyone who wants extend framework examine communication contexts. Furthermore, it highlights fundamental role increase potential promoting freedom expression, multilingualism, modernity. Keywords: Code-switching; base language; Arabic; sociolinguistics;