On January 11, 2025, Addis Ababa’s Millennium Hall witnessed a momentous event as Mahmoud Ahmed, Ethiopia’s legendary singer, bid farewell to the stage. The emotional night saw thousands of fans paying tribute to his six-decade-long career, alongside performances by Lij Michael, Gossaye Tesfaye, Tadelle Roba, and many more. Even President Sahle-Work Zewde attended, highlighting Mahmoud’s monumental impact on Ethiopian culture and music.
From Humble Beginnings to Stardom
Born in 1941 in Addis Ababa’s Mercato district, Mahmoud Ahmed’s journey to fame was unconventional. He started as a shoe shiner and handyman before seizing a life-changing opportunity in 1962 when he performed with the Imperial Bodyguard Band at the Arizona Club. His impromptu performance turned heads, earning him a place in Ethiopia’s growing music scene.
With his soulful voice and mastery of Tizita (Ethiopian blues), Mahmoud quickly gained recognition. He collaborated with bands like the Imperial Body Guard Band, Roha Band, and Dahlak Band, creating some of the most beloved songs in Ethiopian history. His deep, expressive vocals resonated with fans, making him a household name across generations.
A Discography That Defined Ethiopian Music
Mahmoud Ahmed’s music blended traditional Ethiopian sounds with modern instrumentation, creating a unique style that stood the test of time. His discography spans decades, with albums that continue to influence Ethiopian and African music today.
Here is a look at some of his most iconic albums:
- Alèmyé (1974)
One of Mahmoud’s early and most defining works, this album includes hauntingly beautiful Tizita melodies, capturing themes of love, longing, and nostalgia.
- Ere Mela Mela (1975, re-released in 1986)
Often considered his masterpiece, this album introduced funk-infused Ethiopian jazz, blending traditional Amharic scales with electric guitars and saxophones.
Tracks like Ere Mela Mela and Atawurulegn Lela remain some of Ethiopia’s most celebrated songs.
- Tezeta (1975)
This album is a collection of Tizita classics, where Mahmoud’s voice carries the deep, melancholic essence of Ethiopian blues.
Includes the legendary title track “Tezeta”, which cemented his reputation as Ethiopia’s greatest vocalist.
- Mahmoud Ahmed & Roha Band (1978)
This collaboration with the Roha Band, one of Ethiopia’s most influential modern bands, saw a shift in Mahmoud’s style towards a more upbeat, danceable sound.
- Soul of Addis (1997)
A retrospective album that blends his older recordings with remastered tracks, bringing his early work to a new generation of Ethiopian and international listeners.
- Live in Paris (1998)
A live album capturing Mahmoud’s performance in Paris, where he introduced Ethiopian music to a global audience.
His ability to command a crowd outside Ethiopia cemented his role as an international cultural ambassador.
- Éthiopiques Volume 6 (2000)
Part of the famous Éthiopiques series that introduced Ethiopian jazz and funk to the world.
This album helped Mahmoud gain global recognition, especially in Europe and North America, where Ethio-jazz became highly sought after.
- Yitbarek (2003)
One of Mahmoud’s last full studio albums, this project maintained his classic sound while incorporating modern instrumentation, proving his timeless appeal.
International Recognition and the Ethiopian Sound
Mahmoud Ahmed’s influence reached beyond Ethiopia. His participation in the Éthiopiques series exposed his work to international audiences, earning him critical acclaim. In 2007, he received the BBC Radio 3 World Music Award, celebrating his contributions to global music.
His distinct sound—rooted in the pentatonic scale and characterized by complex rhythms and emotional depth—has inspired musicians worldwide. Western artists and jazz musicians frequently cite Mahmoud’s music as an inspiration.
The Grand Farewell Concert
Mahmoud Ahmed’s farewell concert was meticulously planned over two years, led by a committee including Abraham Wolde and Jorka Events. The event featured:
A performance by Mahmoud Ahmed himself, singing his most beloved hits one last time.
Tributes from artists like Lij Michael, Gossaye Tesfaye, Tadelle Roba, and other Ethiopian music icons.
Dignitaries and government officials, including President Sahle-Work Zewde, paying tribute to his legacy.
This was not just a goodbye to a singer, but a celebration of a man whose music shaped Ethiopian identity, culture, and emotion for over 60 years.
Mahmoud Ahmed’s retirement marks the end of an era in Ethiopian music, but his influence will never fade. His music, infused with Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, continues to inspire old and new generations alike.
Even though he may no longer perform, his songs will echo in the hearts of millions, ensuring that the legacy of Ethiopia’s greatest musical icon remains eternal.
