ሀይሌ ሩትስ | Haile Roots
Basic Identity
- Real Name and Stage Name : The artist’s real name is Hailemichael Getnet, and he is professionally known as Haile Roots.
- Date and Place of Birth : Haile Roots was born on September 25, 1982, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- Age / Current Age or Age at Death : As of 2025, Haile Roots is 42 years old.
- Siblings : There is currently no verified public information available regarding Haile Roots’ siblings.
- Background and Upbringing : Haile Roots grew up in Addis Ababa, attending Selassie Cathedral School and later Minilik II Secondary School. As a child, he was drawn to painting and soccer. However, after attending a 1993 reggae concert organized by DJ Z, he became deeply inspired by reggae’s rhythms and message-driven culture, which shaped his musical path.
Career
- Career Start and Early Breakthrough : Haile Roots began his music career in the early 2000s, but his major breakthrough came after years of performing at local venues and reggae-themed shows across Addis Ababa. Influenced by a 1993 reggae concert he attended as a teenager, he gradually transitioned into music full-time. His blend of Ethiopian roots and reggae caught attention for its originality and message-driven content.
- First Song / Breakthrough Hit : His breakthrough came with the 2011 album Chiggae, particularly with the title track “Chiggae” and the hit single “Bado Neber.” These songs introduced him to a wider Ethiopian audience and reggae lovers globally, marking his transition from underground talent to national sensation.
- Major Milestones and Achievements : Major milestones include: Releasing the critically acclaimed album Chiggae in 2011. Collaborating with Teddy Afro and Jamaican reggae artist Lucciano. Performing on international stages across Europe, Africa, and the U.S. Serving as CEO of the Ethiopian Music Copyright and Neighboring Rights Organization, advocating for local artists’ rights.
- Awards and Recognitions : While exact awards have not been extensively documented, Haile Roots has been widely recognized in Ethiopian music circles for his contribution to reggae and activism. He’s often invited to speak on artist rights and industry reform and was honored at various Ethiopian music festivals for his advocacy and artistry.
- International Reach and Diaspora Performances : Yes, Haile Roots has gained international attention through his performances in Europe, including shows in Germany, Sweden, and France, and reggae festivals abroad. While no formal global record deal has been confirmed, his collaboration with Lucciano and growing diaspora fanbase underscore his global resonance.
Albums
Tracks
| Nisueh Quanquayie | Chiggae | Bado Neber |
| Wudinesh | Leman Biyie | Yetefa Yigegnal |
| Melkam Yamarech | Ethiopia | Chew Lerasish |
Personal Life
- Relationship Status and Children : There is no publicly confirmed information about Haile Roots being married, in a relationship, or having children. He has kept his personal and family life very private, focusing media attention on his music and advocacy work.
- Net Worth and Assets : While exact figures are not publicly confirmed, Haile Roots is estimated to have a net worth in the range of $500,000 to $1 million, primarily from album sales, performances, and executive leadership at the Ethiopian Music Copyright and Neighboring Rights Organization. He leads a modest and conscious lifestyle with no display of luxury or extravagance, aligning with his philosophical and artistic values.
- Current Residence and Lifestyle : Haile Roots currently resides in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He lives a private life focused on music, advocacy, and spiritual growth. His day-to-day activities often involve studio work, organizing cultural events, and participating in artist rights initiatives, maintaining a balance between his public and private roles.
Business
- Business & Cultural Investment : Haile Roots has significantly expanded his impact beyond music. He serves as the CEO of the Ethiopian Music Copyright and Neighboring Rights Organization (EMCNRO), where he advocates for the rights and royalties of Ethiopian artists. Through this leadership role, he plays a key part in reforming music copyright standards in Ethiopia. While there are no confirmed reports of commercial brand partnerships or private business ventures, his executive role positions him as a prominent figure in Ethiopia’s music policy and rights infrastructure.
-SOURCES-
Haile Roots Official Facebook Page
Haile Roots Official YouTube Channel
Haile Roots Official Twitter Account
Haile Roots Official Instagram Account
Music in Africa – Haile Roots
BBC Afaan Oromoo – Haile Roots
The Reporter Ethiopia – Haile Roots
Viberate – Haile Roots
Discogs – Chiggae Album
Spotify – Chiggae Album
Apple Music – Chiggae Album