ነጻነት መለሰ | Netsanet Melesse

Basic Identity

What is the artist's real name and stage name?

Her real and stage name is Netsanet Melesse.

Where and when was the artist born?

Netsanet Melesse was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Her exact birthdate is not publicly disclosed.

How old is the artist currently?

While her exact age is not officially confirmed, Netsanet Melesse is estimated to be in her late 50s to early 60s as of 2025, based on her career timeline.

Who are the artist’s parents (mother and father)?

Public information regarding Netsanet Melesse’s parents has not been disclosed in available interviews or profiles.

Does the artist have any siblings? If so, who are they?

There is no confirmed public information about her siblings.

What is the artist’s background and upbringing like?

Netsanet Melesse grew up in a religious family in Addis Ababa and began singing at a young age. She was part of a church choir and performed at charity events. Influenced by Western artists like Whitney Houston, Madonna, and Aretha Franklin, she developed her musical talents early on. Her older sister, a radio producer, encouraged her to perform on a Sunday show, which led to her discovery by the Walias Band and subsequent performances at the Hilton Hotel in Addis Ababa.

Career

When and how did the artist start their music career ?

Netsanet Melesse began her music career in the mid-1980s after being discovered through a Sunday youth radio program in Addis Ababa. Her breakthrough came when she was invited to perform with the iconic Walias Band at the Hilton Hotel, a turning point that exposed her to wider audiences and established her as a rising voice in Ethiopian modern music.

What was the artist’s first song &/or Breakthrough Hit ?

One of Netsanet’s earliest and most impactful songs was “Yetal Liju”, a heartfelt ballad that resonated with Ethiopian audiences for its soul-infused vocal delivery and lyrical depth. The track helped cement her reputation as a powerful and emotionally expressive artist.

What are some major milestones or accomplishments in the artist’s career?

- Collaborated with Walias Band and later performed with Roha Band, both foundational in shaping modern Ethiopian music.
- Maintained a successful career through Ethiopia’s transitional cultural eras, bridging traditional and modern styles.
- Became one of the most recognizable female voices in the Ethiopian pop and soul scene.
- Built a strong diaspora following, especially among Ethiopian communities in North America and Europe.

What awards, honors, or special recognitions has the artist received?

While she may not have received formal international awards, Netsanet Melesse has been celebrated at various Ethiopian music appreciation events, particularly for her contributions to modern Ethiopian soul and her influence on younger female artists.

Has the artist received international attention or signed global deals?

Netsanet has performed at cultural and Meskel celebrations in cities like Washington, D.C., and London. While she hasn’t signed with global labels, her music has reached audiences abroad through online platforms and live diaspora performances.

Albums

Tracks

Personal Life

Is the artist married, in a relationship, or single — and do they have any children?

As of the latest available information, Netsanet Melesse has maintained a private personal life. However, reports indicate that she relocated to Toronto, Canada, in 2004 with her 10-year-old son. Details about her marital status or other children have not been publicly disclosed.

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?

There is no official estimate of Netsanet Melesse’ s net worth. Her income is presumed to derive from her music career, including album sales and live performances. Public information about her assets, such as properties or vehicles, is not available.

Where does the artist currently live, and what is known about their day-to-day environment or personal lifestyle?

Netsanet Melesse is reported to reside in Toronto, Canada, since her relocation in 2004. While specific details about her daily life are scarce, she is known to have made a musical comeback with the album “Fertuna” in 2004, indicating ongoing engagement with her artistic pursuits.

Business

Aside from their musical career, has the artist ventured into any businesses, brand partnerships, or entrepreneurial projects?

Netsanet Melesse has not publicly launched any personal businesses or signed with major commercial brand endorsements. However, her career includes key aspects of cultural entrepreneurship. Since moving to Canada, she has continued performing for the Ethiopian diaspora community and participated in events that preserve and promote Ethiopian cultural music abroad. While not structured as a traditional business, these activities represent her role as a cultural ambassador and contributor to Ethiopian music’s international visibility.

				
					-SOURCES-



Music in Africa

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