Entertainment & Arts

“Finding Sally” Premieres in Addis Ababa, Illuminating a Hidden Chapter of Ethiopian History

Award-winning Ethiopian-Canadian filmmaker Tamara Mariam is bringing her critically acclaimed documentary Finding Sally to its long-awaited Ethiopian premiere. The screening will take place at Century Cinema in Addis Ababa on Friday, May 9 at 6 PM, and will be followed by a special Q&A session with Tamara and composer Abegasu Shiota. This screening will feature

May 1, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Entertainment & Arts

Kuku Sebsibe to Release Eighth Album ‘Dejazmach’: A Celebration of Ethiopian Music

Celebrated Ethiopian singer Kuku Sebsibe, known for her distinctive blend of traditional Ethiopian melodies and modern influences, is poised to release her eighth album, “Dejazmach,” on April 24, 2017. With a career deeply rooted in music from a young age, Kuku’s journey is a testament to her passion and commitment to Ethiopian musical heritage. Born

April 29, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Culture

A Deep Dive into Ethiopia’s Most Streamed Musicians on Spotify

By AHA-Z Insights | Data as of December 2024 In a compelling reflection of global music trends and the growing influence of Ethiopian soundscapes, a recent ranking by AHA-Z Insights highlights the top 10 Ethiopian musicians on Spotify based on monthly listeners. This curated list not only recognizes streaming numbers but also offers a unique

March 29, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Entertainment & Arts

Farewell to a Legend: Merawi Sitota, Ethiopia’s King of the Clarinet

Ethiopia mourns the passing of one of its greatest musical legends, Merawi Sitota, who has departed from this world’s burdens. A pioneer of Ethiopian modern music, he leaves behind a legacy spanning over five decades—an era in which he stood as a pillar of instrumental and orchestral composition. Recognized as one of the founding figures

March 18, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Entertainment & Arts

Affini: The First Ethiopian Film to be Screened TWICE at the New African Film Festival in the USA

Don’t miss the chance to see Affini on the big screen in the USA! Affini, the epic Ethiopian film, is making history as the first of its kind to be screened twice at the prestigious New African Film Festival (NAFF) in the USA. You’ll have the unique opportunity to experience this cultural gem on March

March 5, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Entertainment & Arts

One Night, One Song, One Legend: How Gigi Wrote ‘Adwa’ in 90 Minutes

When we listen to Gigi’s powerful anthem “Adwa,” we hear a song of pride, honor, and triumph—a celebration of Ethiopian history, freedom, and the spirit of the Ethiopian people. But what many don’t know is the fascinating backstory behind the creation of this iconic piece of music. How many of us realize that “Adwa” was

March 3, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Entertainment & Arts

Yohana’s Hello: The Album That Greets the Future of Ethiopian Music

Yohana Ashenafi is redefining Ethiopia’s reggae and dancehall scene with his signature blend of tradition and modern sound. Born in Debrezeit, a place where creativity thrives, he attended Kidist Selassie (Holy Trinity) Cathedral School, which nurtured both discipline and artistry. Though he later pursued mechanical engineering at Mekelle University, music was always his true calling.

February 10, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Books

Poet and Tobiya Jazz Event Organizer Misraq Terefe Arrested Amid Unclear Circumstances

Poet and renowned literary event organizer Misraq Terefe was arrested on January 22, 2017, and taken to the Addis Ababa Police Commission for questioning. The arrest has sparked concern among Ethiopia’s literary and artistic community, as the reason for her detention remains undisclosed. Misraq Terefe appeared before the Federal First Instance Court, Arada Division, on

February 1, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Entertainment & Arts

The Weeknd’s Reflection on the Ethiopian Red Terror: A Hidden Narrative in His Song

Abel Tesfaye, known to the world as The Weeknd, has built a career around deeply emotional and introspective music. While his songs often explore themes of love, fame, and personal struggles, a more profound historical narrative seems to emerge in one of his latest tracks. The lyrics of this song, particularly its references to “terror,”

January 31, 2025 • By Addis Insight

Entertainment & Arts

Drummer Teferi Assefa, Ethiopian Jazz Pioneer and Negarit Band Leader, Passes Away at 53

The Ethiopian music community is mourning the loss of Teferi Assefa, a renowned drummer and percussionist, who passed away this past week in the United States due to medical complications. He was 53 years old. Teferi Assefa was celebrated for his exceptional talent and groundbreaking contributions to the Ethiopian jazz scene. Known for his innovative

January 25, 2025 • By Addis Insight