Emel Mathlouthi

Singer Emel Mathlouthi has been called “The Voice of the Tunisian Revolution.” In 2010, her song “Kelmti Horra” (my word is free) became an anthem for protesters during the Arab Spring. Banned from her country’s official airwaves, she rose to prominence through social media, becoming an international symbol of freedom.  Her captivating style is lyrical, with powerful rock, oriental and trip hop influences. Named one of world music’s best musicians of 2015 by PopMatters, Emel Mathlouthi is a unique artist with a powerful message and a voice beyond comparison.

“It’s the astonishing range and sensuousness of Mathlouthi’s voice that is most compelling. There are swoops and growls reminiscent of Bjork... and even traces of her goth past as she picks out minimal, reverberant lines on electric guitar.” —The Guardian