ነዋይ ደበበ | Neway Debebe
Basic Identity
What is the artist's real name and stage name?
- His real and stage name is Neway Debebe.
Where and when was the artist born?
- Neway Debebe was born on December 21, 1958, in Hamer Bako, Ethiopia.
How old is the artist currently?
As of May 2025, Neway Debebe is 66 years old.
Who are the artist’s parents (mother and father)?
Public information regarding Neway Debebe’ 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 his siblings.
What is the artist’s background and upbringing like?
- Neway Debebe was born in Hamer Bako and raised in various parts of Ethiopia, including Asella, Awassa, and Wolaita Sodo, due to his parents’ work-related relocations. His passion for music began during his high school years at Ras Andarge High School in Asella, where he actively participated in the school band and contributed melodies and lyrics. Encouraged by his music teacher, Fantahun Antalehegn, Neway pursued his musical aspirations, eventually moving to Addis Ababa to further his career.
Career
When and how did the artist start their music career ?
Neway Debebe began his music career in 1973 by joining the renowned Ethiopian music group The Roha Band after moving to Addis Ababa. His early exposure to music during high school in Asella and the support of his music teacher, Fantahun Antalehegn, laid the foundation for his future in the Ethiopian music industry.
What was the artist’s first song &/or Breakthrough Hit ?
One of Neway Debebe’s early and most successful songs was “Eshet Belahugn”, which was featured in his debut album and became widely recognized across Ethiopia. It solidified his place in the music scene during the 1980s.
What are some major milestones or accomplishments in the artist’s career?
Released multiple albums during the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, gaining widespread popularity.
Performed extensively with Roha Band, Ethiopia’s top band during the 80s.
His “Yetikimt Abeba” track remains a seasonal classic played during the Ethiopian fall.
Lived and performed in the United States for several years, contributing to diaspora music culture.
Returned to Ethiopia and remained active with new music releases and national tours.
What awards, honors, or special recognitions has the artist received?
- Although Neway Debebe has not been formally awarded by major international music institutions, he has received lifetime achievement honors from Ethiopian cultural organizations both domestically and in the diaspora for his decades-long contribution to Ethiopian music.
Has the artist received international attention or signed global deals?
Neway Debebe has built a strong international following among the Ethiopian diaspora in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. Though he has not signed with a major international label, he has independently produced music distributed through diaspora labels and YouTube channels.
Albums
Tracks
- Alwashim
- Amen
- Yemanese Enkoy
- Yefikir Emebet
- Keremela
- Eshetus Belahugn
- Belay
- Maebel New
- Jimma
- Yetikimit Abeba
- Siwedush Eweki
- Gonder
Personal Life
Is the artist married, in a relationship, or single — and do they have any children?
- Neway Debebe was previously married Aida Hassen. during the early stages of his career. However, the marriage ended in divorce. In recent years, he has remained private about his current relationship status. As of now, there is no confirmed public information about whether he has children.
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?
Neway Debebe’s exact net worth has not been publicly disclosed. However, he is considered one of Ethiopia’s most commercially successful traditional and contemporary artists. His income primarily comes from album sales, live shows, and international performances. He reportedly owns property in Addis Ababa and has lived abroad during parts of his career, especially in the United States. Despite his success, Neway is known for maintaining a humble and low-profile lifestyle.
Where does the artist currently live, and what is known about their day-to-day environment or personal lifestyle?
Neway Debebe currently resides in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after spending several years living in the U.S. He leads a reserved and culturally engaged life, occasionally appearing in media for musical or heritage-related content. He also supports emerging Ethiopian musicians and is sometimes involved in mentoring or performing at national events and cultural festivals.
Business
Aside from their musical career, has the artist ventured into any businesses, brand partnerships, or entrepreneurial projects?
While Neway Debebe has not publicly launched large-scale commercial ventures or brand partnerships, he has been deeply involved in Ethiopia’s music economy in meaningful ways. He co-founded a small independent music label during his time in the U.S., primarily to distribute his albums and those of other Ethiopian artists. In Ethiopia, he occasionally collaborates with cultural organizations and production studios to mentor emerging talent and produce traditional music events. His business activities are artist-centered rather than commercial, focused on cultural continuity and artistic control.
-SOURCES-
Sewasew Multimedia
EBS TV
Fana Broadcasting Corporate
Balageru Cultural Discussion Panels
YouTube
Walta TV
Sheger FM
Music in Africa
Addis Music Fest Archives
Facebook
TikTok
AmharicPrints.com
EthioJazz.org
YegnaTube
Sheba Music Label