Mizwad · المزواد
Region/Countries: Tunisia
Mizwad spans 1970s–present across Tunisia. It foregrounds Darija lyrics, ululation hooks, call-and-response. Rhythms include raï 4/4, chaabi patterns and borrow from aita. Ensembles center on violin, bendir, synths with additions like guitar, percussion. Influences include Raï, Chaabi, European dance-pop. Lyrics are ≈80% Arabic.
Musical features
- Darija lyrics
- ululation hooks
- call-and-response
- riffy violins
Rhythms & Forms
- raï 4/4
- chaabi patterns
- aita
Core instruments
Influences
- Raï
- Chaabi
- European dance-pop
- Raï-rock
Related genres
- Tarab
- Maqam-based Classical (Arab Classical)
- Classical Arabic Music
- Modern Arabic Classical / Symphonic Music
- Arabic Symphonic Pop
- Muwashshah
Sources
- Britannica — Arabic music (overview)
- Oxford Music Online — Arab music overview
- Smithsonian Folkways — regional notes