Louisa Tounsia

Louisa Tounsia, born as Louisa Saâdoun in 1905 in Tunis, was a renowned Tunisian singer of Jewish origin. She rose to fame in the 1920s and became a cultural icon, blending French and Arabic styles to create a unique musical experience. Known for her modernist approach, Tounsia's performances were groundbreaking, as she gathered diverse audiences in large venues, a departure from the segregated settings common at that time. Her music often critiqued societal norms, earning her acclaim and controversy alike. Tounsia's prolific career included numerous recordings for labels like Pathé and Columbia, with songs like “Heukm Ennessouane” gaining significant attention. She performed extensively in North Africa and Europe, eventually passing away in 1966.

Throughout her career, Louisa Tounsia worked with notable artists and recorded over 30 songs in Arabic and French. Some of her most famous pieces include “Chérie, combien je t'aime” and “Ala Bab Darek,” which have been reinterpreted by other artists. Her legacy remains strong in Tunisian collective memory, and her music continues to inspire new generations. Despite her popularity, little is known about her final years, but her impact on the musical landscape of North Africa remains undeniable.