Music

Alemayehu Eshete 1941 – 2021

(Amharic: ዓለማየሁ እሸቴ)

Alemayehu Eshete, often called the “Ethiopian Elvis,” was a trailblazing Ethio-jazz singer whose vibrant voice and electrifying stage presence helped define a golden era of Ethiopian music. Singing primarily in Amharic, Alemayehu began his rise in the 1960s when his talent caught the attention of Colonel Rètta Dèmèqè, who invited him to join the renowned Police Orchestra of Addis Ababa.

His breakthrough came in 1961 with the hit single “Seul”, and he later co-founded the influential Alèm-Girma Band alongside Girma Bèyènè. For over 15 years, Alemayehu released around 30 singles, becoming a household name until the political shift brought by the Derg regime forced him, like many artists of the time, into exile.

Alemayehu’s legacy didn’t fade — it expanded. His music found new audiences in Europe and the Americas, especially through the acclaimed Éthiopiques series by Buda Musique. Volume 9 is dedicated entirely to his early work, while Volume 22 highlights his recordings from 1972 to 1974, with other tracks featured across multiple volumes.

In 2008, he toured the United States with legendary Ethiopian vocalist Mahmoud Ahmed, performing with the Boston-based 10-piece jazz ensemble, Either/Orchestra — a tour that brought his timeless sound to new ears and cemented his place as a global ambassador of Ethiopian music.

Alemayehu Eshete’s influence continues to echo, not just in Ethiopia, but around the world. A true pioneer. A legend never forgotten.

WW