Art is a tool of a society to understand and mend its mistakes, critic the way the society lives in unbound, tremendous exhaust. Its been the common language of society to communicate in a limitless manner and connect to the fundamentals of humanity.
On November 7, 2021, a concert was organized at Meskel Square in the spirit of uniting dominantly the youth to take part in the war if necessary.
Ethiopian renowned singer Tariku Gangasi “Dishta Gina” gave a dramatic speech in front of a large crowd about the war currently happening in Ethiopia. In his speech, he declared he won’t be singing, leaving the crowd and everybody shocked. Then continued giving an emotional, and trembling speech preaching to the youth, to not go to war, to say no to conflict, and to reconcile our mistakes and move forward.
“I can’t sing, what’s there to sing about when our brothers and sisters are dying, we have no enemy, let’s stop killing each other ” he stated.
The question once again arose from not the obvious words stated by the artist but the acceptance of war in society, and how these allegations are used to politize and manipulate people.
He was condemned by media and officials that it was necessary for him to apologize for saying the simple truth that peace is better and there is no real winner in war. Following his speech he publically apologized and addressed the rumors concerning this matter, and noted that “ I was not paid off by anyone and I was emotional and said exactly what I wanted, I did not expect I would be crucified for those simple words, and that’s how my people understand it I’m sorry.” he stated in his interview.
Activist Tamagne Beyene gave his views on this matter saying ” he should not be the one criticized but the organizers that are responsible for not being able to control loopholes”
For years music has been a tool to educate, aggregate society’s psyche, and challenge the ordinary concepts we live by. We’ve famously witnessed the power of art to unify a nation, and in some way, artists get criticized for sharing information that the artist believes in.
