Well, this year was a doozy!!! It truly gave 2020 a run for its money. Things pretty much imploded, here and in Ethiopia. There were times that even music disinterested me, or simply felt distasteful? I don’t know. In true music-head fashion, however, that didn’t last forever. Instead, I was reminded and warmed by music’s true potential for helping people heal, galvanize, and experience unbridled joy (especially when we needed it most). Here are my favorite songs of the year.
“Dishtagina” – Tariku Gankisi: Lyrics, beat, earnest performance – check, check, check! It was so refreshing to experience a larger-than-life hit from the most unassuming singer. What a treat this song is. Team Tariku FOREVER.
“Hinberbadu” – Tokichaw: I’m not sure where Tokichaw disappeared to before he released this song, but he came right on time with this absolute banger. Here’s to more releases from the young legend!
“Tew” – Veronica Adane: The perfect lane and song from miss performer Veronica!
“Sost” – Rophnan: I’ll continue patiently waiting for the next full-length project from Rophnan but this three-for-one served as a great release to hold me over until then.
“Wal Agarra” – Galaanaa Gaaromsaa: I loveee me some Galaanaa and this big song was truly what the game was missing.
“Adilatni” – Amanuel Yemane: The message in this is so clearly felt…
“Eloma” – Ephrem Amare: Here too.
“Yene Tizita” – Wendimu Jira: I loved this song for being beyond endearing and emotional.
“Fegeg Shewa” -Dagim Alemu: A truly heartwarming and lovely debut single and video.
“Sew Atash Wey” – Mastewal Eyayu: Siiigh, these lyrics… 🙁
“Yewub Dar” – Addis Mulat and Abdu Kiar: These fun vibes almost serve as nostalgia at this point.
“Darbee Laalla” – Andualem Gosa: Another gem from this hitmaker.
“Chemiruwal” – Muhabaw Alamrew and Belayinesh Asmare: It’s funny, it’s an azmari song, what’s not to love?
“Abet Abet” – Meek1One: A catchy follow-up to Meek1One’s debut single blending traditional and modern.
“Wesnual” – Kaleab Kinfe: His vocal performance here is commanding and so good.
“Kuru” – Skat Nati: A WHOLE vibe!
