When inspiration is high, so can creative output… was such apparently the opposite in 2019?? Whether the past few years provided enough musical goodness to runneth over into this year, or political/social optimism waned and affected the musical climate, I DON’T KNOW. In any case, since 2019 did not provide much in exciting and memorable music (was there even a lack in volume of songs?!), I praise adjacent years for music that has longevity and have hope for redemption in the year to come. All of this to say, in the many years I’ve ranked my personal favorite Ethiopian songs, this will be the first year that I simply could not. I can only make sure you didn’t miss the songs that certainly warrant regular rotation. Find them here, in no particular order.
“Lageba New” – Gildo Kassa feat. Shakura: An immensely catchy and endearing wedding song for a new generation
“Zebibey” – Solomon Bayre: I loved this song for Solomon’s emphatic voice, multiple Tigrinya “shim shim” break-downs, and the twinkle instrumental effects~
“Akukulu” – Michael Melaku feat. Asge Dendasho: They really turnT out a childhood rhyme into an infectious, vibey hit.
“Tezez” – Mesfin Berhanu: A formula of easily sing-along-able chorus, and pretty much nothing else, to make another hit for Mesfin Berhanu. He makes it look so easy!
“Leba New” – Micky Gonderegna, Sancho Gebre, Gildo Kassa: The chorus of the year! The multilayered melody and straight catchiness! Whatever this Afrobeats-y trend is in Ethiopian music, I’m here for it.
“Wenani” – Timnit Welday: A woman-led bop! Another last-minute contender for this is “Yebleni’loo” by Selamawit Yohannes!
“Michuu Dhugaa” – Andu’alem Gosaa: Andu’alem’s energy and infectious vocal choices are on full display here <3
“Tikurye Tikurye” – Milaw Tesfay: Music is supposed to be fun!!! And this is FUN.
“Meksebey” – Winta Berhane: My girl never misses, and this is no exception.
