The Lounis Aït Menguelet US tour has been officially announced, marking the first time the legendary Kabyle singer will perform in the United States, with concerts scheduled between April 18 and April 25, 2026, across three major cities.
At 76, Lounis Aït Menguelet continues to expand his global presence with this milestone tour. The iconic Algerian artist will begin his American journey in Chicago on April 18 before heading to Philadelphia the following day and concluding in San Francisco on April 25.
This first U.S. tour represents a significant step for one of Algeria’s most respected musical figures. Known for his poetic lyrics and deep cultural influence, Aït Menguelet has previously captivated audiences in prestigious venues in Paris and performed for large Algerian communities in Quebec, Canada.
The tour, organized by Anizav World Arts, is being presented under the theme “Three Cities, One Promise.” In a message shared with fans, the artist described the concerts as “three exceptional evenings” centered on authenticity, poetry, and emotional connection.
“Three cities, three encounters, but one promise: to share sincere moments, carried by poetry and emotion,” he wrote, highlighting the spirit behind this long-awaited tour.
Born on January 17, 1950, in Ighil Bwammas in the Tizi-Ouzou region, Aït Menguelet began his artistic journey at just 17 years old. Over decades, he has built a legacy as one of the most influential voices in Kabyle music, with timeless songs such as “Djamila” earning him widespread recognition.
The detailed schedule for the Lounis Aït Menguelet US tour includes three carefully selected venues. The opening performance will take place in Chicago on April 18 at 6:00 p.m. at Charles P. Steinmetz High School. He will then perform in Philadelphia on April 19 at 7:00 p.m. at the Keswick Theatre. The tour will conclude in San Francisco on April 25 at 6:00 p.m. at the Herbst Theatre.
These cities were chosen for their vibrant cultural scenes and the presence of North African and Algerian diaspora communities eager to experience his music live. Fans across the United States are expected to attend what promises to be a rare and memorable series of performances.
This tour not only strengthens cultural ties between Algeria and the United States but also introduces new audiences to the richness of Kabyle musical heritage. As anticipation builds, the concerts are likely to attract both longtime admirers and new listeners discovering Aït Menguelet’s work for the first time.
The announcement signals a continued international reach for Algerian artists, reflecting growing global interest in North African music and cultural expression.
Sami B. is the founder and editor of Algeria News Gate, an independent English-language platform covering Algeria’s political, economic, and business developments. Based in Europe, he reports on official announcements, economic trends, and international relations involving Algeria.