Chokri Bouzayen Honors Tunisian Musical Heritage at Hammamet Festival

Chokri Bouzayen captivated audiences at the 60th Hammamet International Festival, leading a concert dedicated to Tunisia's rich musical legacy. The performance opened with "Tounsi we Rafaa Rassi" (Tunisian and proud of it), a song that immediately set a tone of national pride and belonging.

The nearly two-hour concert offered a journey through Bouzayen's career, blending well-known classics like "Salli Alla Sidi Ennebi" with lesser-known pieces and even new material. The repertoire aimed for a distinguished and unpredictable selection, encouraging a fresh appreciation for Tunisian music. Bouzayen was joined by emerging talents Firas Kolsi and Emna Dammak, who performed songs such as "Fi khatri" and "La t’hayerni," respectively. This collaboration fostered a vibrant generational dialogue, mixing voices and styles to create an eclectic and energetic stage presence.

“

The evening is a tribute to an artist who has given a lot to Tunisian song and is still capable of giving more.

Maher Hammami, president of the Tunisian Musicians Union, paid tribute to Bouzayen, stating that the evening honored an artist who has "given a lot to Tunisian song and is still capable of giving more." Bouzayen himself expressed his satisfaction with the audience's enthusiastic reception, noting that "Tunisian song moves listeners." He also reflected on his early performances at the Hammamet festival, recalling his first appearance at age 16 in 1978 as a foundational moment in his career. The emphasis on transmission was evident in the confident performances of Kolsi and Dammak, who had meticulously prepared their parts, showcasing their mastery and unique interpretations.

“

Tunisian song moves listeners. The reaction of the spectators to the different songs testifies to their enthusiasm for this national musical heritage.