Souad Massi (born 23 August 1972 in Algiers) is an Algerian-Kabyle singer-songwriter and guitarist who has lived in Paris since 1999, after leaving Algeria following death threats she received while playing in the political rock band Atakor. Her acoustic-led sound weaves together folk, chaâbi, fado, rock and Saharan influences, and she sings across Arabic, French and Kabyle Berber - often within a single song. Her 2001 debut Raoui brought her international recognition, and in 2017 she was appointed Officier des Arts et des Lettres by the French government.
Souad Massi released her ninth studio album Zagate on 6 March 2026 via BackingTrack/Proper Distribution, produced by Justin Adams.
Massi launched a European tour in support of Zagate, with dates running through November 2026 across France, Germany and the UK.
The lead single 'Samt' (Silence) from the forthcoming album Zagate was released in December 2025, accompanied by a music video directed by Yann Orhan.
Massi performed at the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg on 14 March 2025.
The French government appointed Souad Massi to the rank of Officier des Arts et des Lettres in 2017.
Algerian songwriter and vocalist Souad Massi performs with guest Youssoupha, blending chanson, Arabic music, and rock in an opening concert.
Algerian singer Souad Massi performs in St. Pölten. The concert takes place on January 15, 2027 at 7:30 PM.
Algerian artist Souad Massi presents her music blending tradition with contemporary sounds on the Zagate Tour 2027.