Aït Menguellet en concert à l’Opéra d’Alger
Lounis Aït Menguellet: A Celebration of Kabyle Music in Algiers
Lounis Aït Menguellet, regarded as the icon of Kabyle music, captivated his audience once again during a sold-out concert on Friday night at the Opéra d’Alger Boualem-Bessaih. The event was a highlight of the cultural programming for the month of Ramadan, drawing nearly a thousand enthusiastic fans eager to experience the legend’s music live.
The concert spanned two and a half hours, during which Aït Menguellet serenaded his audience with a rich selection of his greatest hits, many of which were sung along by his devoted fans. The setlist included nostalgic songs that harked back to the golden days of his career in the 1970s and 1980s. Notable performances featured classics like "Ayabrid," "Mliyid," "Urgigh," and "Ur di tagga," culminating with "Telt ayyam."
Despite his 75 years, Aït Menguellet appeared in commendable form, seated comfortably with a guitar resting on his knee. Accompanying him were talented musicians, including his son Djaffar, who is an accomplished musician and flutist. Djaffar has played an integral role in Aït Menguellet’s performances in recent years, and alongside his own son Yanis, the concert showcased a beautiful generational collaboration on stage.
Aït Menguellet’s performance showcased not only his extraordinary vocal talent but also the emotional depth of his lyrics, which often encompass themes of homeland and love. Following a brief intermission, he continued to enchant the audience with poignant songs such as "Ameddah," "Sber ay uliw," "Ghef y-ismim," and "Ruh ad qimegh," closing the evening on a high note.
With a musical career spanning over five decades, Aït Menguellet is celebrated for his poetic lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners. His contribution to Algerian music has established him as a monumental figure, drawing large crowds wherever he performs.
After the show, Abdelkader Bouazzara, the Director General of the Opéra d’Alger, expressed his satisfaction with the event, noting that the sold-out status of Aït Menguellet’s concert is a testament to the enduring popularity of this revered artist. His concerts consistently attract enthusiastic followers, reinforcing his status as a beloved cultural icon.
As the crowd departed, the enduring legacy of Lounis Aït Menguellet continued to resonate in the hearts of his fans, affirming not only his talent but also the significance of Kabyle music within Algeria’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether through longing melodies or lyrics steeped in nostalgia, Aït Menguellet remains a vital force in preserving and celebrating the heritage of Algerian music.
