ADDIS JAZZ FESTIVAL

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to our partners, artists, vendors, and everyone who made Addis Jazz Festival 2025 a success!

The Addis Jazz Festival (AJF) stands as the flagship event of Muzikawi, Ethiopia’s leading music and event production company. Proudly the only jazz festival of its kind in East Africa, AJF is a vibrant celebration of musical artistry, uniting established legends with emerging talents and presenting fresh work from both local and international artists.

Since its inception in 2019, the festival has served as a cultural beacon, promoting jazz to Addis Ababa, promoting the rich heritage of Ethio-Jazz, and offering international jazz musicians invaluable opportunities for networking and collaboration. Over the years, AJF has hosted iconic performances by celebrated artists such as Hailu Mergia, Alemayehu Eshete, Samuel Yirga, Kibrom Birhane, Girma Beyene, Dawit Yifru, Jorga Mesfin, and Kaÿn Lab, cementing its place as a vital platform for the global jazz community. The festival is gaining popularity as a resounding success, drawing international artists from Zambia, Zimbabwe, Uganda, and Sweden. With its growing reputation and vibrant programming, the Addis Jazz Festival continues to elevate Ethiopia’s cultural scene, inspiring audiences and artists alike.

The upcoming 2025 edition, scheduled for February 7 – 9 at Sweden Residence,
promises an unforgettable experience.

Addis Jazz Festival 2025 Final Artists Lineup.

Dawit Yifru feat Kuku Sebsebe

(Ethiopia)

Ethiopia’s living legend and icon, Kuku Sebsebe, will join the legendary Dawit Yifru for a historic concert that will undoubtedly go down in history. Kuku Sebsebe, widely regarded as one of the most influential and celebrated voices in Ethiopian music, has been captivating audiences for decades with her soulful, emotive voice and commanding stage presence. A trailblazer in the Ethiopian music scene, she has pioneered countless songs that have become anthems of Ethiopian culture, known for blending traditional Ethiopian sounds with modern musical elements. Kuku’s career has spanned over half a century, with her music continuing to inspire generations of listeners both in Ethiopia and abroad. Her unique ability to convey deep emotion through her voice has made her a beloved figure in Ethiopian music and culture.

Alongside her, Dawit Yifru, one of the most important figures in Ethiopian jazz, will take the stage. Along with Hailu Mergia and Mulatu Astatke, Yifru is regarded as a giant and one of the great composers in the history of Ethiopian jazz, with a career that has spanned over fifty years. His influence on modern Ethiopian music is profound, with many considering him the creator of the contemporary Ethiopian sound. As the bandleader of the legendary Roha Band and Dahlak Band, Dawit has collaborated with some of the greatest musicians in Ethiopia, including Muluken Melesse, Neway Debebe, and Kennedy Mengesha.

In April 2023, Dawit’s self-titled vinyl was released on the Ethiopian label Muzikawi, and its first pressing quickly sold out. Get ready for Ethiopian music at its finest!

Roha Band
feat Fikreaddis Nekatibeb

(Ethiopia)

We are thrilled to once again present the iconic Roha Band at the 2025 edition of Addis Jazz Festival, marking their return to our stage for the second time! The Roha Band is a powerful force in Ethiopia’s modern music scene, celebrated for their unique fusion of Ethiopian instrumentals and pop. With their soulful sound and innovative approach, they have captured the hearts of audiences far and wide.

Known for their exceptional musicianship and vibrant live performances, The Roha Band has earned a legendary status not only through their own groundbreaking recordings but also through their instrumental accompaniment to Ethiopian music legends such as Aster Aweke and Mahmoud Ahmed. Their contributions to the industry have helped shape the landscape of Ethiopian music, and their extensive discography continues to resonate with music lovers around the world. For this year’s edition of the Addis Jazz Festival, the stage will be graced by none other than Ethiopian star Fikeraddis Nekatibeb!

Fikeraddis Nekatibeb is one of Ethiopia’s most revered singers with over three decades of exceptional music. Known for her powerful vocals and timeless contributions, Fikreaddis has released 8 solo albums and 4 duo albums, winning numerous awards including ‘Album of the Year’ and ‘Best Female Artist.’

Born in Gonder and starting her career with a military band, Fikreaddis’ music blends traditional Ethiopian melodies with contemporary influences. She has collaborated with top lyricists and composers such as Tsegaye Deboch, Abebe Birehane, Adugna Bogale, Sirak Tadese and Elias Melka, as well as iconic arrangers and bands like Tesfaye Lemesa , Roha Band, Elias Melka, and Abegaz Kibrework.

Samuel Yirga

(Ethiopia)

Addis very own Samuel Yirga carries the torch forward with his masterful piano work, earning his place as a key ambassador of Ethio-jazz.

We are thrilled to once again welcome Samuel Yirga to the Addis Jazz Festival lineup! His extraordinary career has taken him from performing for former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan to serving as a keyboardist for Dub Colossus. His critically acclaimed album Guzo was released on Peter Gabriel’s Real World Records, and his collaborations span a remarkable range—from Susheela Raman and German pop icons Clueso and Max Herre to rapper Megalo. Most recently, he graced the stage with the legendary tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain.

Sammy Yirga is known for his remarkable adaptability and sensitivity to classical music, honed at Addis Ababa’s Yared School of Music. Despite significant social and familial challenges, he pursued his passion relentlessly, forging a unique path. His dynamic fusion of contemporary and classical jazz with Ethiopia’s golden-age pop songs, layered with traditional rhythms and classical undertones, has captivated audiences worldwide and opened the doors to major festivals and global acclaim.

Bereket Abebe

(Ethiopia)

Bereket Abebe, born in 1997, is a celebrated jazz bassist renowned for his funk, slap, and melodic playing style. Hailing from Ethiopia, Bereket’s early exposure to church music shaped his passion for jazz.

Drawn to the bass’s deep sound, he began playing in his teens and quickly impressed local musicians with his rhythmic skill. Moving to Addis Ababa in his twenties, he joined the vibrant jazz scene, collaborating with top artists and performing at prestigious venues like African Jazz Village and Fendika Cultural Center.

As a versatile musician, Bereket has shared the stage with renowned bands and released an album, Three World, showcasing his innovative yet tradition-rooted compositions. He continues to push boundaries, excelling as a performer and composer in Ethio-jazz.

Stewart Sukuma & Banda Nkhuvu

(Mozambique)

Stewart Sukuma, a gifted musician, singer, and composer from Cuamba in Mozambique’s Niassa province, leads the 8-piece Afropop Jazz band Banda Nkhuvu. Together, they blend traditional Mozambican music with contemporary styles, creating an energetic fusion of Jazz and Afropop.

Sukuma has toured extensively across Europe, Africa, and the United States, sharing stages with legends like Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela. As a founding member of the Mozambican Musicians’ Association, he has championed Mozambican music on the global stage while also welcoming international artists like Eric Clapton and Gilberto Gil to his homeland.

In 2007, he released Nkhuvu—”celebration”—an album featuring contributions from Lokua Kanza, Jimmy Dludlu, and others. Singing in a record number of languages, including Portuguese, Shitswa, and Ciyao, Sukuma captures the diversity of Luso-Africa. This is the second time we have the honor of presenting Stewart at Addis, following his memorable and acclaimed performance back in 2012 at the Selam Festival Addis at Ghion.

Mapei

(Sweden)

It is an incredible honor to present Mapei in Addis for the third time, as she continues to shine as one of Swedens absolute biggest urban artists.

Mapei is a Swedish-American-Liberian multi-creator known for her versatility as a singer, rapper, theatre director, and short film producer. In 2014, her breakout single “Don’t Wait” from her debut album Hey Hey became a global phenomenon. The track, now surpassing 100 million streams, catapulted her into the spotlight with features on David Letterman, a tour with John Legend, a spot on the Billboard charts, and multiple Grammy nominations. It also inspired remixes by legends like Frankie Knuckles, the pioneer of Chicago House, and Chance The Rapper.

Mapei’s artistry is driven by curiosity and her refusal to follow predictable paths. Her 2019 album Sensory Overload showcases a different side of her artistry compared to Lullabies, an intimate project created after becoming a parent. Over the years, she has collaborated with major artists such as Swedish House Mafia, Major Lazer, and Robyn, solidifying her reputation as a boundary-breaking artist who continues to redefine the urban music scene.

Winyo

(Kenya)

Winyo is one of Kenya’s most cherished contemporary artists, celebrated for blending traditional Benga music with Afro jazz, country, R&B, and blues. His music transcends boundaries, connecting hearts and souls worldwide.

Derived from the Luo word for “bird,” Winyo’s name captures the ethereal quality of his voice. Rooted in Benga tradition, he has revitalized the genre while preserving the guitar techniques of legends such as Ochieng’ Nelly and George Ramogi.

Winyo’s musical style has earned him both regional and international acclaim. In 2010 and 2011, he was runner-up for the Radio France Internationale Discoveries Music Award, leading to the release of his debut album, Benga Blues, in 2012. The album combined soulful melodies with heartfelt storytelling, captivating audiences and opening doors to international tours and festivals.

Singing in English, Swahili, and Dholuo, Winyo has collaborated with legends such as Joss Stone, Vieux Farka Toure, and Oliver Mutukudzi, enriching his sound and cementing his status as a global artist. Now signed with Abubilla Music, he is preparing to release his second album in 2025, exploring themes of grief, healing, and resilience, reaffirming his place as a treasured Kenyan artist.

Tigray Cultural Group

(Ethiopia)

The Tigray Cultural Group, established in the 1960s and revitalized in 2004, has been a vital force in preserving and celebrating Tigray’s rich cultural heritage. Through music, dance, and art, the group has brought the traditions of Tigray to life on prestigious stages both in Ethiopia and abroad, captivating audiences with their vibrant performances. Their international appearances include notable performances in Qatar and Angola, where they showcased the beauty and depth of Tigrayan culture.

Their album Sounds of Ashenda, released on August 16, 2024, in collaboration with Muzikawi, is a testament to their dedication to cultural preservation. The album features six singers from different regions of Tigray, blending traditional instruments crafted by the group with public lyrics and melodies. These songs celebrate Ashenda, focusing on praising the girls who participate in the festival and announcing its arrival.

The Ashenda festival, held from August 22–30, is a cherished tradition in Tigray that marks the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the end of the Filseta fasting season. During the festival, women and girls adorn themselves with papyrus, Nile grass, and paper reed, tying them around their waists as they sing, clap, and perform lively dances. Traditional songs like “Ashenda is here” bring the celebration to life, honoring both the festival’s spiritual and cultural significance.

Now, audiences have the exciting opportunity to experience the Tigray Cultural Group live at the Addis Jazz Festival 2025. This performance promises to be a vibrant showcase of Tigray’s enduring cultural legacy and the group’s unparalleled artistry.

HaddinQo with Desta Groove

(Ethiopia)

Haddis Alemayehu, known as HaddinQo, is a professional MasinQo player and a leading figure in the revival of this ancient, 3000-year-old Ethiopian one-string instrument. A self-taught musician since 2008, HaddinQo has redefined the role of the MasinQo in contemporary Ethiopian music.

He is a co-founder and member of Moseb Band and recently launched the global movement “One String One World.” Since 2013, HaddinQo has graced stages both in Ethiopia and internationally, seamlessly incorporating jazz, blues, rock, pop, reggae, afrobeats, amapiano, and more into his unique sound.

His impressive collaborations include performing with the Holland Symphony Orchestra at the Souk Festival in Amsterdam, at Paris Fashion Week for Wales Bonner, the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony in Oslo, and the Gent Jazz Festival alongside Dr. Mulatu Astatke, the father of Ethio-jazz.

Passionate about promoting Ethiopian musical heritage, HaddinQo dreams of a world playing MasinQo by 2050. We eagerly look forward to his upcoming project with Desta Groove at this year’s Addis Jazz Festival!

KaYn Lab

(Ethiopia)

Kaÿn Lab is an experimental jazz fusion band blending Ethiopian modes with Western rhythms to create a groundbreaking sound. Founded in 2014, the group takes an improvisational yet structured approach to reimagine Ethiopia’s musical traditions.

The band’s members are accomplished musicians who have performed worldwide with legendary Ethiopian artists like Tilahun Gessesse and Mahamoud Ahmed, as well as international icons such as Louis Belson and Chuck Mangione. Their debut album, Suite Abyssinia (2015), established them as cultural ambassadors, captivating audiences at prestigious venues and international platforms like CNN’s Inside Africa.

Through performances, workshops, and teaching, Kaÿn Lab honors Ethiopia’s rich musical heritage while continuously innovating. Their music is a dynamic fusion that invites audiences to dance, reflect, and be inspired.

Jemberu Demeke

(Ethiopia)

Known by his stage name Jemberu Demeke, or JD, Jedidiah Wondwossen is a talented young artist who has carved a unique niche in the music world with his innovative “tonic fusion” style.

This fusion blends modern commercial music with Ethiopian ethnic scales, incorporating genres like hip-hop, rock, R&B, and more. In addition to his artistry, JD is also a skilled beat producer and sound engineer.

JD released his self-titled debut album in 2022, which gained significant traction among young audiences. His conscious lyrics, smooth flow, and top-tier production earned him admiration from music lovers, bringing a fresh and unprecedented sound to Ethiopian music.

He also collaborated with UNO on an EP titled “Firfir” (ፍርፍር), demonstrating his versatility and ability to create impactful music with other artists. UNO, known for producing Kassmasse’s hit track “Maleda,” added his signature touch to the project.

One of JD’s most notable achievements was his collaboration with the legendary father of Ethio-Jazz, Dr. Mulatu Astatke—a major success that further cemented his reputation in the music scene.

JD’s recent record-breaking feat saw him performing 10 shows in a single night at different venues. This remarkable accomplishment was documented in a captivating performance video that drew widespread attention.

His exceptional talent and groundbreaking performances earned him the prestigious Feta Show Music Award, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the music industry.

JD continues to push the boundaries of Ethiopian music, consistently delivering innovative, compelling tracks that resonate with audiences both locally and internationally.

Eat Ethio

(Ethiopia / UK)

Eat Ethio is a multifaceted creative studio that proudly celebrates the culture of Ethiopia by merging the relationship between food, coffee, music, and artistry.

For over a decade, Eat Ethio has shared its ethos with a global audience through immersive events, installations, collaborations, and music gatherings.

Helina and Scott are passionate collectors of Ethio Jazz records and cassettes, celebrating everything from the golden age of the 60s and 70s to the exciting new music inspired by the culture. They’ve’ previously hosted a monthly listening residency at the Hong Kong audiophile sanctuary, The Music Room at Potato Head, and collaborated with Analogue Foundation and Brilliant Corners for Giant Steps in London, as well as hosting NTS radio shows.

Their hope is to preserve and pass on this unique music to the next generation, while sharing it with many along the way!

DJ JAZZY DAVE a.k.a. Dawit Asrat Alemayehu

(Ethiopia)

is one of the up and coming DJs that is part of Addis Ababa’s vibrant nightlife. With his specialization in Ethio-Jazz, Funk, Soul, Jazz and World Music, DJ jazzy Dave has been entertaining audiences in Addis Ababa, bringing great music to different audiences, local and international, in famous clubs, Lounges, and Musical events one of the most well attended music clubs in the city and also in the festivals in the city such as Acacia Jazz & world Music festival, Selam World Music Festival, Addis Jazz festival, and Internationally attended such as WAG Art festival, and Ode to life art festival Main DJ and member, Boiler Room worldwide live stream.

Ethiophonic Projects

(Ethiopia)

Ethiophonic Projects is one of the most exciting and up-and-coming acts in the vibrant Ethio-jazz scene emerging from Addis Ababa. A true force to be reckoned with, they are redefining the genre by blending Ethiopia’s rich musical heritage with a modern, global perspective.

Rooted in the deep cultural traditions of Ethiopia, Ethiophonic Projects draws inspiration from centuries-old melodies, rhythms, and stories passed down through generations. Their music weaves together the country’s diverse languages and vibrant art forms, creating a soundscape that resonates far beyond borders.

With a vision of uniting cultures through the universal language of music, Ethiophonic Projects aims to foster global harmony while celebrating the beauty of diversity. As they rise, they are becoming a beacon of Ethio-jazz, connecting audiences worldwide and showcasing the transcendent power of Ethiopian music and artistry. Don’t miss the chance to witness one of the most electrifying acts shaping the future of Addis’ buzzing jazz scene!

Day 1

Friday, Feb 7