BIOGRAPHY

Alemayehu Eshete Andarge (June 1941 – September 2, 2021) was a renowned Ethiopian musician, often dubbed the "Abyssinian Elvis" for his captivating stage presence and his ability to blend traditional Ethiopian sounds with the influences of Western rock and roll. Emerging in the 1960s, he became a leading figure in the Ethio-jazz movement, working alongside artists like Mulatu Astatke. Eshete’s style brought together Ethiopian musical traditions with funk, soul, and jazz, producing popular tracks such as "Temar Lije" and "Addis Ababa Bete." His global recognition soared after his early works were featured in the Éthiopiques series. Eshete continued performing until his death in 2021, leaving a significant impact on both Ethiopian and world music, with his contributions admired at home and abroad.

Alemayehu Eshete was born in June 1941 in Addis Ababa, where his father worked as a taxi driver. When he was just two months old, his mother relocated with him to Dessie, where they remained until he was three years old. His father eventually brought him back to Addis Ababa to ensure he received a proper education. Alemayehu attended the Christian Training Institute near Yohannes Church, where his singing abilities were first noticed while performing hymns. As a child, he was heavily influenced by Elvis Presley, often copying his style and entertaining his friends with renditions of songs like "Jailhouse Rock."

Alemayehu’s musical talent was discovered by Colonel Retta Demeqe, who invited him to join the Addis Ababa Police Orchestra. In 1961, he achieved his first hit with the song "Seul" and later co-founded the Alem-Girma Band with Girma Bèyènè. Over his career, Alemayehu became known for blending American rock influences with traditional Ethiopian music, particularly during the "swinging Addis" era of the late 1960s. His international fame grew with the release of the Éthiopiques series. Volume 9 focuses on his early work, while Volume 22 covers his recordings from 1972 to 1974, with other songs appearing on Volumes 3, 8, 10, and 13. In 2008, Alemayehu toured the U.S. with Mahmoud Ahmed, performing alongside Boston's Either/Orchestra. Alemayehu passed away at midnight on September 2, 2021, in a hospital in Addis Ababa. He had battled heart disease for several years and had undergone surgery for blocked arteries five years before his death. In his final days, he spent time with friends but felt unwell before being admitted to the hospital. He was laid to rest on September 7, 2021, at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa. A large farewell ceremony at Meskel Square, attended by tens of thousands, honored his legacy, with his iconic songs "Temar Lije" and "Addis Ababa Bete" played as a tribute. Alemayehu is survived by seven children and six grandchildren.