BIOGRAPHY
Eyob Mekonnen, celebrated as Ethiopia’s "King of Reggae," was a pioneering figure in Ethiopian music whose work introduced reggae with Amharic lyrics and local themes to Ethiopian audiences. Born in 1975 in Jijiga, his passion for music was evident from a young age. However, it was not until he joined a group called Zion Band in Addis Ababa that he began his journey as a musician in earnest. Later, he went on to pursue a solo career, where he became known for infusing reggae’s rhythms with messages of love, peace, and social justice, resonating strongly with younger generations.
Eyob’s breakout came with his debut album Kal (meaning “Word” in Amharic) in 2007. His song Nekchalehu quickly became an anthem, addressing issues such as love, harmony, and resilience, as well as Ethiopia’s social challenges. Through his work, Eyob aimed to uplift his country and promote messages of unity and compassion. His voice and lyrics, often layered with hope and positivity, attracted a devoted following, and he became known not only for his musical talent but also for his dedication to positive social change.
