Ethiopian Jazz

Recently, I have decided to indulge myself in music that makes me feel at ease or content, and a sub-genre I was suggested to hear was Ethiopian Jazz. And let me tell you, I am in love. 

Ethiopian Jazz, also known as Ethio-jazz, was fathered by Mulatu Astatke in the 1950s when he fused his interests in jazz and Latin music with traditional Ethiopian music.

I started by exploring for some well-known musicians in the genre, and was immediately fond of the works by Mulatu Astatke, Getatchew Mekurya, and Emahoy Tsege Mariam Gebru. The music they provide, fills me with a warm, soothing feeling, as if I am the protagonist and the world is my oyster. I could be whoever I'd want to be, simply if I try my hardest. I love listening to the genre while on the tram, the bus, while reading a novel, getting ready for the day, evening, night. I am mesmerised. 

"Tezeta (Nostalgia)" "Ené Alantichie Alnorem" "Munayé (My Muna)" "Tezetayé Antchi Lidj (Baby, My Unforgettable Remembrance)" - by Mulatu Astatke

All of the album "Wede Harer Guzo" - by Hailu Mergia and Dahlak Band

"Tezeta" "Endegena" - by Haily Mergia and The Walias

"Ethiopiques, vol 21: Emahoy (Piano Solo)" - by Emahoy Tsege Mariam Gebru