BIOGRAPHY

Born in 1976 in Hawassa, Ethiopia, Abinet Agonafir’s journey into music began at an early age. When his family moved to Addis Ababa in 1977, he enrolled at Yekatit 23 School, where his artistic talents started to blossom. By 1983, he was deeply involved in school clubs, exploring poetry, short stories, and most notably, music. The rhythmic and lyrical beauty of Ethiopian sounds captivated him, and he found himself drawn to the art of songwriting and composition.

To refine his skills, Abinet joined the Mestawet Music and Theater Club, where he learned to play the keyboard and performed with bands like Hi Fas and Nyala. His musical style matured as he began composing songs for rising artists, solidifying his reputation as a gifted songwriter. His talent soon took him beyond Ethiopia, performing in prestigious venues across the Middle East. These experiences enriched his artistry, allowing him to blend Ethiopian sounds with global influences, shaping the unique musical identity he is known for today.

Abinet's breakthrough album, "DibikWubet," released in 2003, was an instant success, paving the way for his subsequent albums: "Wuleta" in 2007, "Astaraky" in 2014, and "Aleke" in 2023. Each album showcased his deep lyricism, soulful melodies, and ability to connect with audiences. Beyond his own career, he played a pivotal role in the Ethiopian music scene by writing and composing for artists like Aregahegn Werash, Zeritu Kebede, and Rahel Getu. With a career spanning decades, Abinet Agonafir remains a defining figure in Ethiopian contemporary music, inspiring generations with his heartfelt compositions and timeless sound.