Raï King Delivers Unforgettable Performance at 60th International Festival of Carthage
Ten years after his last performance at the legendary Amphitheatre of Carthage, the undisputed King of Raï, Cheb Khaled, made a spectacular return to the Tunisian stage on Saturday, July 18, during the second evening of the 60th International Festival of Carthage.
The Algerian music icon, celebrated as a global ambassador of raï and a towering figure in Arabic music, was welcomed with overwhelming enthusiasm by a sold-out crowd. Thousands of spectators filled the ancient Roman amphitheater for an evening steeped in nostalgia, emotion, and collective celebration.
A Career-Spanning Setlist Delights Generations
From the opening notes of “Ragda,” the audience was transported on a musical journey through Khaled’s remarkable four-decade career. The atmosphere quickly intensified with “Ya Chebba,” which had the crowd on their feet, singing and dancing throughout the historic venue.
The setlist showcased Khaled’s timeless repertoire, including “Sbabi Ntya,” “Les Ailes,” and an energetic medley that revisited some of his most beloved tracks. His band, featuring exceptionally inspired musicians, delivered virtuosic performances—particularly the keyboardist, whose spontaneous solos and rapport with the audience drew thunderous applause.
Flamenco Fusion and Family Moments
A particularly memorable rendition of “Wahran” was presented with flamenco influences, where the interplay between guitars and drums captivated the audience. The crowd responded by transforming the amphitheater into a vast choir, singing along to every word.
The emotional crescendo came during “Bakhta,” as thousands of mobile phone lights illuminated the ancient stone steps while voices united in perfect harmony.
Speaking with evident sincerity, the 65-year-old artist expressed his joy at returning to Carthage after a decade away. Visibly moved by the reception, Khaled told the crowd: “Thank you to you all, may God bless you. Tonight is a true celebration for me, and I am sharing this magnificent musical journey with you.”
Symbolic Moment Unites Algeria and Tunisia
One of the evening’s most touching moments occurred when Khaled’s children joined him on stage during “Hya Hya,” presenting him with both Algerian and Tunisian flags. The musician raised them with visible pride, a gesture that powerfully symbolized the deep historical, cultural, and fraternal bonds between the two nations.
Grand Finale Leaves Lasting Impression
The concert reached its peak with “Didi,” the raï anthem that ignited the entire amphitheater. Khaled himself took to the keyboards for an impressive solo that delighted the audience.
But it was “Aïcha” that created pure magic. From the first notes, the ancient Roman amphitheater transformed into a massive chorus, with thousands of voices singing every word while phone lights created a sea of stars across the ancient stones.
Khaled closed the exceptional evening with the upbeat “C’est la Vie,” bringing the crowd together one final time in an explosion of song, dance, and applause.
Through this unforgettable performance, Cheb Khaled once again confirmed his status as raï’s undisputed icon and his unique ability to unite generations through music that transcends borders and time.
TunisianMonitorNews
