A brief exchange during Coachella has put a centuries-old form of celebration, commonly heard across the Arab world, into the spotlight. Singer Sabrina Carpenter apologised after mistaking a fan’s zaghrouta – a high-pitched ululation – for yodelling during her headlining set on Friday night. This is weird.”The moment, which quickly circulated on social media, drew criticism from some viewers who said the reaction dismissed a cultural expression of joy. Zaghrouta is a vocal expression of joy made by rapidly moving the tongue from side to side while producing a high-pitched sound. Traditionally, the zaghrouta is performed by women, particularly older family members or those leading celebrations.

Source: The North Africa Journal April 13, 2026 01:06 UTC