Hédi Habbouba, King of Mezoued, Electrifies Roman Amphitheater at Oudhna Festival Closing

The ancient Roman amphitheater in Oudhna vibrated with Tunisian popular music on Sunday night as the Oudhna International Festival of Popular Arts concluded. Virtuoso artist Hédi Habbouba, a celebrated figure in Tunisian song, captivated a large crowd that filled the historic venue.

Organizers staged the event as a tribute to Habbouba's legacy, recognizing his pioneering efforts in promoting and enriching Tunisia's popular musical heritage. Known for carrying local dialect songs worldwide, Habbouba has performed internationally for decades, leaving a lasting mark on collective memory with his enduring hits.

The evening featured a lineup of popular music artists who performed Habbouba's most famous songs, including "Majabouk Arab Ya Maryem" and "Lilet El Mezoued Khaddem." Habbouba himself appeared both at the opening and closing of the show, demonstrating his undiminished vocal power and stage presence, which have remained a signature of his unique musical style.

Habbouba expressed his pride and gratitude for performing at Oudhna, particularly moved by the audience's loyalty. The Minister of Cultural Affairs also honored the artist, a gesture that deeply touched the "king of mezoued" and symbolized institutional recognition of his significant contributions to Tunisian music. The enthusiastic audience sang and danced throughout the night, bridging the ancient grandeur of the Roman theater with the vibrant spirit of Tunisian folklore.

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I am deeply touched by the loyalty of a warm audience that filled every corner of the amphitheater.