አለማየሁ እሸቴ | Alemayehu Eshete
Basic Identity
What is the artist's real name and stage name?
- His full name is Alemayehu Eshete Andarge, and he performed under the stage name Alemayehu Eshete.
Where and when was the artist born?
- Alemayehu Eshete was born in June 1941 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
How old is the artist currently?
Alemayehu Eshete passed away on September 2, 2021, at the age of 80.
Who are the artist’s parents (mother and father)?
His father was Andarge Eshete, one of the few official taxi drivers in Addis Ababa. His mother, Belaynesh Yusuf, hailed from the Wollo province in north-central Ethiopia.
Does the artist have any siblings? If so, who are they?
There is no publicly available information regarding Alemayehu Eshete’ s siblings.
What is the artist’s background and upbringing like?
Alemayehu Eshete spent his early childhood in Dessie, Wollo province, after his parents separated when he was six months old. He returned to Addis Ababa at age three to pursue education. He attended the Christian Training Institute near Yohannes Church, where his musical talent was first recognized through singing hymns. Influenced by Western music and artists like Elvis Presley, he developed a passion for music that led him to perform in school events and eventually pursue a career in music.
Career
When and how did the artist start their music career ?
Alemayehu Eshete began his music career in the early 1960s after being discovered by Colonel Retta Demeqe, who invited him to join the Addis Ababa Police Orchestra. His dynamic performances and fusion of Ethiopian music with Western rock and roll influences earned him the nickname “Ethiopian Elvis.”
What was the artist’s first song &/or Breakthrough Hit ?
His first major hit was “Seul,” released in 1961. This song marked the beginning of his prominence in the Ethiopian music scene.
What are some major milestones or accomplishments in the artist’s career?
Founded the Alem-Girma Band with Girma Bèyènè, contributing significantly to the Ethio-jazz movement.
Released numerous singles and albums, many of which were later compiled in the Éthiopiques series, notably Volumes 9 and 22.
Performed internationally, including tours in Europe and the United States, gaining a cult following among world music enthusiasts.
What awards, honors, or special recognitions has the artist received?
- While specific awards are not widely documented, Alemayehu Eshete’s inclusion in the Éthiopiques series and his international performances reflect his recognition as a pivotal figure in Ethiopian music.
Has the artist received international attention or signed global deals?
Yes, Alemayehu Eshete gained international attention through the Éthiopiques series released by Buda Musique, which introduced his music to a global audience. He also performed internationally, including a notable tour in the United States in 2008.
Albums
Tracks
- Sekesh Ataskign
- Wededku Afekerku
- Ende Amora
- Alteleyeshignm
- Tekeyersh
- Marign Beyeshalew
- Yeweyn Haregitu
- Temar Leje
- Eruq Eyalew
- Addis Abeba Bete
- Chegersh Bene Alfual
- Yesew Bet Yesew New
Personal Life
Is the artist married, in a relationship, or single — and do they have any children?
- Alemayehu Eshete was known to keep his personal and family life largely private. While it was known among close circles that he had a family, there is no widely published or confirmed information about his marital status or the number and identity of his children. Public appearances and interviews mostly focused on his music and legacy rather than his domestic affairs.
What is the artist’s estimated net worth, and are there any known details about their lifestyle, such as homes, vehicles, or other major assets?
Alemayehu Eshete’ s exact net worth was never publicly disclosed. However, given his status as one of the most iconic figures in Ethiopian music, he earned a substantial living from his decades-long career through album sales, live shows, and international tours. He was known to live comfortably in Addis Ababa and had traveled widely due to music festivals and cultural events. Despite his fame, Alemayehu led a modest and grounded lifestyle, devoted more to artistic legacy than wealth display.
Where does the artist currently live, and what is known about their day-to-day environment or personal lifestyle?
Until his passing in 2021, Alemayehu Eshete resided in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He remained active in the music and cultural community, often mentoring younger artists and appearing at national events celebrating Ethiopian musical heritage. He lived a quiet yet purposeful life, focused on preserving the traditional music scene and sharing his experiences with future generations.
Business
Aside from their musical career, has the artist ventured into any businesses, brand partnerships, or entrepreneurial projects?
Alemayehu Eshete was not publicly associated with large-scale commercial businesses or brand partnerships. However, he was deeply invested in the cultural preservation and international promotion of Ethiopian music. Throughout his career, he collaborated with music producers, including European labels like Buda Musique, to reissue and distribute classic Ethio-jazz and funk recordings globally. His involvement in the “Éthiopiques” series significantly boosted Ethiopia’s music export market. While not a businessman in the conventional sense, Alemayehu contributed to cultural entrepreneurship by licensing his catalog for global distribution and participating in cross-border music projects that elevated Ethiopia’s vintage sound to international audiences.
-SOURCES-
Wikipedia
The Guardian
Buda Musique
BBC Africa
Red Bull Music Academy
Afropop Worldwide
YouTube
Music In Africa
OkayAfrica
Addis Standard
France24
Ethiopian Reporter