Folk music on the radio in Tunisia

Folk genre music in Tunisia is very rich and varied, evoking a sense of cultural identity and national heritage. Realized through regional and traditional instruments, the folk genre encompasses many sub-genres, such as Bedouin, Berber, and Arab-Andalusian, among others. The most popular folk artists in Tunisia include Ahmed Hamza, Ali Riahi, and Hedi Jouini. Ahmed Hamza was a prolific composer and musician whose works are still celebrated in Tunisia to this day. Ali Riahi was known for combining traditional Tunisian music with modern elements, earning him the title of the “father of modern Tunisian music.” Hedi Jouini, on the other hand, was a master of Arab-Andalusian music and a renowned singer who became famous in Tunisia and throughout the Arab world. These artists have all contributed to the development and popularisation of the folk genre in Tunisia. Several radio stations in Tunisia play folk genre music, including Radio Tunis, which was established in the 1930s and remains one of the oldest radio stations in the country. The station’s dedicated folk music programme, called “Samaa El Fana,” is broadcasted on Sunday evenings, where renowned and upcoming artists alike are invited to perform live. Other stations include Shems FM, which airs a programme called “Tarab El Hay,” featuring traditional Tunisian music and new compositions, in addition to Mosaïque FM’s programme “Layali El Andalus,” which plays Andalusian music, and Jawhara FM’s programme “Hayet Al Fan Fi Tunis.” In conclusion, folk genre music in Tunisia is a significant part of Tunisian culture and has a rich history that has been preserved and evolved over time. With the contributions of notable artists and the support of local radio stations, Tunisian folk music continues to thrive and attract new audiences in and outside the country.