BIOGRAPHY
Born in Dire Dawa in 1948, Ali Birra’s love for music started as a young boy captivated by the traditional sounds of the Oromo people. Growing up amidst the cultural vibrance of Dire Dawa, Ali developed a deep-seated pride in his heritage, which would become a powerful theme in his music. He started performing publicly with Afran Qallo, one of the first bands dedicated to Oromo music, which allowed him to channel his cultural identity and draw attention to Oromo music in a time when it was marginalized. Ali’s early work laid the foundation for a lifetime of using music as both art and cultural expression.
Ali Birra’s career skyrocketed with songs like Hin Yaadin ("Don’t Worry") that captivated audiences with heartfelt messages and rhythms true to Oromo music traditions. His deep, soulful voice and engaging lyrics allowed him to connect with audiences far beyond his ethnic roots. Ali blended traditional Oromo tunes with contemporary sounds, making his music widely accessible while maintaining its authenticity. By the 1970s, he had gained national fame, and his songs became anthems that resonated with themes of resilience, identity, and unity. His popularity also made him an ambassador for Oromo music, which had historically been underrepresented.
