Ethiopian music legend Alemayehu Eshete dies

Eshete, who is known as the ‘Ethiopian Elvis Presley’, died of a heart attack after battling heart disease for some time. He was actively involved in the Ethio-jazz music scene since the 1960s.

His death was confirmed by local media on 3 September. Across social media, condolences have been pouring in from the musician’s colleagues and fans.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed paid tribute to the singer’s contribution to the Ethiopian music industry, particularly in motivating both veteran and emerging singers to engage in musical works that promote patriotism. “Ethiopia will always be honoured in his works. Those who worked for Ethiopia will never die but will rest in glory,” he said.

“We are saddened to hear the death of the legendary Alemayehu Eshete,” Addis Jazz Festival wrote on social. “We extend our most sincere condolences to his family and fans.”

Swedish independent cultural organisation Selam, which has an office in the Ethiopian capital, also paid tribute to Eshete: “We are deeply saddened by the death of Alemayehu Eshete. Known for his best timeless tunes, ‘Temar Lije’ and ‘Addis Ababa Bete’, Eshete was one of the most popular legendary Ethiopian singers. Our most heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”

Black Buddha Sounds said: “Another mighty tree has fallen. Thank you, Alemayehu Eshete, for the many magical moments and inspiration you brought my family and me through the years. Your music lives on.”

Eshete will be remembered for his frantic funk workouts that retained an Eastern-sounding, Ethiopian edge. Born and raised in Jimma, the internationally touring musician launched his career in the 1960s as a member of the Police Orchestra. His first hit was ‘Seul’ in 1961 before moving on to start the Alem-Girma Band with Girma Beyene. Over the course of 15 years, Eshete released about 30 singles until the arrival of the Derg junta, which forced him and many other Ethiopian artists into exile. He gained fame in Europe and the US with the release of Buda Musique’s Ethiopiques series, whose Volume 9 is devoted entirely to Eshete’s early recordings.