IAM is a French hip-hop collective from Marseille that interjects political themes and thoughts about the determent of oppression into its music. Formed in 1989, IAM makes songs that are typically comprised of modern rap beats that are blended with Middle Eastern instrumental accompaniments. The western Asian sounds help compliment the the group's lyrics, that tend to focus on stories of ancient Egypt as well as Islam. Though the band charges its songs with political messages, they are typically delivered in a way to not offend or ostracize--but to enlighten and educate.