One common form of performance in Tishoumaren music is the use of traditional instruments, such as the tinde drum and the imzad fiddle. These instruments are often played in a rhythmic, percussive style, providing the backbone for the music and giving it a distinctive, driving energy. Another important form of performance in Tishoumaren music is the use of electric guitars, which were introduced to the genre in the 1980s. These guitars provide a powerful, distorted sound that adds a new dimension to the music, creating a fusion between traditional Tuareg music and Western rock and blues. In terms of performance style, Tishoumaren music is often characterized by its energetic, lively performances. Musicians and audiences alike often dance and move in time with the music, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. At the same time, the music can also be more contemplative and meditative, with a focus on repetition and trance-like states.

The Tuareg people have a long history of vocal music that is deeply ingrained in their cultural identity. Their traditional singing styles influenced the development of Tishoumaren music, which combines these styles with elements of Western music to create a unique and powerful sound. One common singing style used in Tishoumaren music is call-and-response. This style involves a lead singer or group of singers singing a phrase or line, which is then answered or echoed by the rest of the group or audience. This creates a dynamic interplay between the singers and the audience and emphasizes the communal nature of the music. Another style of singing commonly used in Tishoumaren music is chanting. Chanting can create a hypnotic effect that draws the listener into the music and is an essential part of many Tishoumaren songs. Tishoumaren music also incorporates elements of Western singing such as harmonies, melodic variation, and improvisation.

The lyrics and themes of Tishoumaren music often reflect the experiences and struggles of the Tuareg people, who have faced a long history of political and social marginalization. Some of the most common themes in Tishoumaren music include resistance, love and loss, the celebration of culture, connection to the land, and spiritual themes.

The most significant cultural influence on Tishoumaren music is the traditional music of the Tuareg people, which is characterized by the use of instruments like the imzad fiddle and the tinde drum, as well as by vocal techniques like ululation and call-and-response. This music reflects the Tuareg people's long history of nomadic life in the Sahara desert and often speaks to themes of love, loss, and connection to the land. Tishoumaren has also been influenced by outside genres. For example, the music of Ali Farka Touré, a Malian guitarist, has had a significant impact on the development of Tishoumaren music, with many Tuareg musicians citing him as an important influence. Other outside influences on Tishoumaren music include the political struggles and social movements of the 20th century, which have helped to shape the genre's themes of resistance and social justice.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Tishoumaren sound is the use of heavily distorted electric guitar, which creates a gritty, raw tone that reflects the genre's themes of resistance and social justice.

One of the most distinctive features is the use of a 6/8 time signature, which gives Tishoumaren a distinct rhythm and feel. This time signature is often paired with a driving, repetitive rhythm that is created by the bass and percussion. In terms of melodic structures, Tishoumaren music often features a pentatonic scale which gives the music a distinct and haunting sound. The imzad fiddle is often used to play melodies that are based on this scale and is an important component of the Tishoumaren sound.