Emel Mathlouthi, an internationally renowned artist, expressed her fascination with Kurdish culture and music ahead of her performance at the Newroz celebrations in Turkey’s Kurdish-majority southeast city Diyarbakir (Amed) on 21 March. In an interview with Yeni Yaşan daily on Monday she said, “I want to be part of the celebration of rhythms, colours and culture,” underlining the allure of Kurdish traditions that captivate her.
Mathlouthi’s music, known for addressing the emotions of oppressed peoples, mirrors her commitment to justice and human rights. She recounted her initial inspiration, “I always felt a strong connection to people’s struggles,” which expanded from her personal experiences to a broader global perspective. Her purpose, she explained, is to “foster empathy and connect people through music.”
Her engagement with Kurdish culture began early in her career, invited by the Kurdish community to perform. Mathlouthi’s interest in Kurdish music is not just artistic but deeply personal, as she seeks to celebrate and immerse herself in its distinctive rhythms and narratives. “As a Tunisian and Arab woman, this is a different experience for me,” she added, acknowledging the unique opportunity to bridge cultural divides through her art.
Mathlouthi’s message to the audience at Newroz is clear: music, art and culture are essential tools for mutual appreciation and understanding. “When we come together to celebrate our cultures, it has the most beautiful response,” the musician said, advocating for a world that cherishes diversity, love and cultural expression.
Emel Mathlouthi’s career, marked by her bold songs of protest and a Tunisian government ban, showcases her role as an artist dedicated to change. Influenced by various musical genres and global issues, she stands as a symbol of resistance, unity, and the transformative power of music.
Emel Mathlouthi is a Tunisian singer, songwriter and musician, renowned for her captivating voice and profound lyrical compositions that blend traditional Tunisian sounds with global music influences. Gaining international acclaim during the Tunisian Revolution of 2011, Emel’s song “Kelmti Horra” (My Word is Free) became an anthem of the Arab Spring, embodying the aspirations and spirit of the movement. A milestone in her career was performing at the 2015 Nobel Peace Prize Concert, an honour that highlighted her significant role as an artist who uses her platform to advocate for peace and change.