17 Best Ethiopian Songs of All Time: 17 Unforgettable Tracks

Hey there, fellow music lovers! TBone here from Level Tunes.

As a Dj and a serious aficionado of world music, I’m thrilled to share my journey discovering the rich soundscape of Ethiopia.

The country’s diverse cultural heritage has produced some incredibly unique tunes that are sure to blow you away! I’ve compiled this list of the 17 best Ethiopian songs of all time, as an invitation to venture into unexplored musical territories.

My passion for these melodies and rhythms has left me profoundly moved and it is my hope that you, too, will find joy and inspiration in this musical odyssey.

Let’s dive in, shall we?

Here are the vest Ethiopian songs of all time that you can check out:

List Of Best Ethiopian Songs of All Time

Top Ethiopian tracks of all time in a list format:

1. “Tezeta” by Mulatu Astatke (1969, Amha Records)

“Tezeta” is a standout track from Mulatu Astatke, often known as the father of Ethio-jazz. Released in 1969 under the Amha Records label, it’s an essential song that graced his seminal album “Afro-Latin Soul”. Astatke masterfully weaves a hypnotic blend of jazz, funk, and traditional Ethiopian music. What makes “Tezeta” so special is its timeless quality, evoking the Ethiopian musical concept of nostalgia or ‘tezeta’. This tune showcases Astatke’s vibraphone skills, underscored by smooth brass arrangements. It’s this melodic journey and universal appeal that makes this song one of my top picks.

2. “Muziqawi Silt” by Wallias Band (1977, Kaifa Records)

“Muziqawi Silt” by Wallias Band is a vital track in Ethiopian music history. Launched in 1977 on the album “Muziqawi Silt”, it was brought to life by Kaifa Records. Wallias Band was one of the first privately owned bands in Ethiopia, and this song is a testament to their trailblazing role. Characterized by catchy horn riffs, funky keyboards, and spirited rhythm section, “Muziqawi Silt” represents the optimism and resilience of the time. Its infectiously rhythmic and harmonious blend is why it deserves a spot on this list.

3. “Ene Alantchi Alnorem” by Girma Bèyènè (1970, Amha Records)

“Ene Alantchi Alnorem” by Girma Bèyènè is a classic tune that uniquely encapsulates the spirit of Ethiopian groove. This captivating track was released in 1970 on the Amha Records label, and it’s one of the highlights of his eponymous album. The track blends traditional Ethiopian elements with a modern twist of jazz. Bèyènè’s heartfelt vocals are perfectly complemented by an infectious arrangement. The way this song captures longing and desire, while still making you want to dance, is why it’s so compelling and a must-listen.

4. “Antchiye” by Mahmoud Ahmed (1975, Philips Ethiopia)

“Antchiye” by Mahmoud Ahmed is a masterful representation of Ethiopian pop music at its finest. From his album “Erè Mèla Mèla”, released in 1975 under Philips Ethiopia, this track shines with Ahmed’s soulful voice and vibrant horn sections. “Antchiye” embodies an intoxicating rhythm that transports you to the heart of Addis Ababa. Its fusion of Western pop sensibilities with Ethiopian tonalities is what makes this track a standout, earning it a spot on this list.

5. “Abbay Mado” by Embètèr Hylé (1961, Philips Ethiopia)

“Abbay Mado” by Embètèr Hylé is a gem from Ethiopia’s musical past. Released in 1961 by Philips Ethiopia, it’s a highlight from her self-titled album. The song’s hauntingly beautiful melody and Hylé’s expressive voice blend to evoke vivid emotions. Traditional krar harp and masenko violin add depth to this ethereal piece. “Abbay Mado” earns its place in this list due to its exquisite expression of longing and its representation of the country’s musical roots.

6. “Tchèrhâ Yèfèkère” by Alèmayèhu Eshèté (1974, Amha Records)

“Tchèrhâ Yèfèkéré” is an electric track by Alèmayèhu Eshèté, fondly known as the Ethiopian James Brown. From his 1974 album under Amha Records, the track packs a punch with energetic funk and soul influences. Eshèté’s rich baritone voice paired with high-energy brass sections creates a truly addictive soundscape. This fusion of Western and Ethiopian music genres perfectly highlights the versatility and power of Eshèté, earning this track a spot on this list.

7. “Aynotchesh Yerefu” by Samuel Belay (1972, Kaifa Records)

“Aynotchesh Yerefu” by Samuel Belay is a captivating song that showcases the unique Ethio-Jazz style. Released in 1972 from the album “Aynotchesh Yerefu” under Kaifa Records, this track beautifully fuses Ethiopian pentatonic scale melodies with a jazz rhythm section. Belay’s impressive saxophone playing and the dynamic rhythm section lend the song an enchanting charm. It’s the captivating harmonic language and melody that make “Aynotchesh Yerefu” a true Ethiopian classic.

8. “Astawesalehu” by Teddy Afro (2005, Nahom Records)

“Astawesalehu” by Teddy Afro stands out as a modern classic in Ethiopian music. Featured on his 2005 album “Yasteseryal”, released under Nahom Records, this track resonates with Afro’s unique blend of reggae rhythms and traditional Ethiopian melodies. The song, with its uplifting lyrics and catchy chorus, delivers a message of unity and love, illustrating why Teddy Afro is considered an influential figure in contemporary Ethiopian music.

9. “Yekermo Sew” by Mulatu Astatke (1974, Worthy Records)

A second entry by the maestro Mulatu Astatke, “Yekermo Sew” is a captivating Ethio-jazz standard from his 1974 album “Mulatu of Ethiopia” on Worthy Records. Known for its hypnotic bassline, intricate horn arrangements, and Mulatu’s mesmerizing vibraphone, this track flawlessly combines Ethiopian scales with jazz structures. Its pervasive influence on global music stages ensures its spot on this list.

10. “Alemiye” by Getatchew Mekurya (1972, Philips Ethiopia)

“Alemiye” by saxophonist Getatchew Mekurya is a key track from his 1972 album “Negus of Ethiopian Sax” under Philips Ethiopia. Mekurya’s explosive saxophone playing, emulating the war cries and laments of Ethiopian warriors, against the backdrop of traditional Ethiopian melodies, sets this song apart. Its raw emotional power and evocative musicality make it an unmissable track on our journey through Ethiopian music.

11. “Bati Bati” by Tilahun Gessesse (1975, Amha Records)

“Bati Bati” by Tilahun Gessesse is an infectious tune from one of Ethiopia’s most beloved singers. This track, from his 1975 album “Siman New Yawkew” on Amha Records, brilliantly fuses traditional Ethiopian music with modern arrangements. Gessesse’s emotive singing style, coupled with the memorable melodies, make “Bati Bati” a timeless Ethiopian classic.

12. “Ewnet Yet Lagegnesh” by Ayalew Mesfin (1973, Kaifa Records)

“Ewnet Yet Lagegnesh” by Ayalew Mesfin is a striking anthem from the Golden Seventies of Ethiopian music. Released under Kaifa Records in his 1973 album of the same title, this song showcases Mesfin’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with irresistibly groovy arrangements. The universal theme of love and longing expressed through the song explains its inclusion in this list.

13. “Sintayehu” by Hailu Mergia (1985, Kaifa Records)

“Sintayehu” by Hailu Mergia is a mesmerizing synth-laden tune that diverges from traditional Ethiopian music. From his 1985 album “Hailu Mergia & His Classical Instrument” on Kaifa Records, this song features Mergia’s exceptional skill on the accordion and synthesizers. This blend of the traditional and modern ensures “Sintayehu” an important place on this list.

14. “Endegena” by Muluken Melesse (1988, Ahadu Records)

“Endegena” by Muluken Melesse is a beautiful ballad from one of Ethiopia’s most popular singers. From his 1988 album “Endegena” released on Ahadu Records, this track is remembered for Melesse’s soulful voice and the emotional depth of the lyrics. The song’s ability to touch listeners deeply with its message of hope and resilience cements its spot on this list.

15. “Yene Hassab Gwadegna” by Menelik Wossenatchew (1969, Philips Ethiopia)

“Yene Hassab Gwadegna” by Menelik Wossenatchew is an unforgettable tune from the golden era of Ethiopian music. Featured on his 1969 album under Philips Ethiopia, Wossenatchew’s expressive voice delivers a powerful message of love and nostalgia. The timeless nature of this song ensures it remains relevant even today.

16. “Asmarina” by Feqadu Amde-Mesqel (1974, Philips Ethiopia)

“Asmarina” by Feqadu Amde-Mesqel is an infectious track that blends traditional Ethiopian music with soul and jazz. Released under Philips Ethiopia in 1974, this song stands out for its catchy rhythms, intricate horn sections, and Amde-Mesqel’s rich, powerful vocals. Its uniqueness and ability to instantly uplift the listener earns it a place on this list.

17. “Ambassel” by Tsegue-Maryam Guebrou (1963, Selamta)

Last but not least, “Ambassel” by Tsegue-Maryam Guebrou is a quiet, contemplative piano piece from her 1963 album “Ethiopiques Vol. 21” on Selamta. Guebrou’s ethereal, introspective playing beautifully captures the melancholy and solitude often associated with the highlands of Ethiopia. The song’s uniqueness and ability to evoke strong emotions place it amongst the best Ethiopian songs of all time.

Fun Facts: Top Ethiopian Tracks of All Time

“Tezeta” by Mulatu Astatke

Did you know? “Tezeta”, apart from being the name of this famous track, is also a term used to describe a music genre in Ethiopia. The word translates to “nostalgia” in Amharic, and it’s often used in songs to evoke feelings of longing and reminiscence. Mulatu Astatke’s “Tezeta” is one of the most iconic examples of this style!

“Muziqawi Silt” by Wallias Band

Fun Fact: The Wallias Band was the first Ethiopian band to tour the United States! They were initially brought over for a residency at an Ethiopian restaurant in the U.S. However, they took advantage of the opportunity and went on to tour across the country.

“Astawesalehu” by Teddy Afro

Interesting Tidbit: Teddy Afro is not just a popular singer; he’s also a renowned philanthropist in Ethiopia. He’s been involved in several charity events and has donated to causes such as children’s education and the support of local artists.

“Yekermo Sew” by Mulatu Astatke

Did you know? This track gained international fame when it was featured in the soundtrack for the film “Broken Flowers” directed by Jim Jarmusch. This helped introduce Ethio-jazz to a broader audience and boosted Mulatu Astatke’s global recognition.

“Alemiye” by Getatchew Mekurya

Fun Fact: Getatchew Mekurya used his saxophone in a unique way by mimicking the sounds of traditional Ethiopian instruments and vocal techniques. This innovation allowed him to adapt the Ethiopian modal system, known as “kirar,” for the saxophone, which led to his distinctive style.

“Ambassel” by Tsegue-Maryam Guebrou

Interesting Tidbit: Tsegue-Maryam Guebrou is a unique figure in Ethiopian music history. She is not only a composer and pianist but also a nun. Guebrou dedicated most of her life to her music and faith, recording her songs in between her religious duties. Her contemplative and deeply spiritual compositions have been a significant influence in Ethiopian music.

As we journey through the mesmerizing rhythms and melodies of these timeless Ethiopian classics, we’re left with a deeper appreciation for the diverse and rich tapestry of Ethiopian music.

From traditional tunes to modern fusions, each song tells a story, an echo of the culture and spirit of Ethiopia.

So keep exploring, keep listening, and most importantly, keep grooving until the music moves your soul.

Thanks for reading.

TBone