Emel Mathlouthi – MRA

Since her international breakthrough with 'Kelmti Horra' ('My Word is Free'), a song that became an anthem for freedom and democracy movements during the Arab Spring, Mathlouthi has been known for combining political activism with musical innovation.


Her work ranges from electronic avant-garde and pop to traditional influences from North Africa and the Middle East. It is characterised by her haunting voice and her poetic, socially reflective lyrics.


With her latest album, MRA ('Woman'), Mathlouthi addresses issues of female empowerment and artistic solidarity. Created in collaboration with an exclusively female team of producers, musicians and artists, the work combines stylistic elements ranging from African trap and batucada to Arabic reggaeton and drum 'n' bass.


Having performed at the Nobel Prize Concert and collaborated with the likes of Valgeir Sigurðsson, Tricky and Acid Arab, the artist is now widely regarded as one of the most distinctive voices in transnational, politically engaged pop culture.