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.
promises an unforgettable experience.
24 – 26 FEBRUARY, 2024
ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
Stewart Sukuma
(Mocambique)
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.
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!
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!
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.
Roha Band
feat TBA
(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.
Nubiyan Twist
(Uk)
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Nubiyan Twist will make their highly anticipated debut performance in Addis Ababa at the 2025 edition of Addis Jazz Festival! This marks an exciting new chapter as the band embarks on a fresh musical journey with their vibrant fourth album Find Your Flame, set to be released on May 3, 2024.
Led by Tom Excell and Aziza Jaye, Nubiyan Twist’s latest album seamlessly blends global grooves, soul, jazz, and electronic elements, with horn-led melodies and spontaneous improvisation. The band’s evolution shines through with the addition of Sheffield-based vocalist Aziza Jaye, who brings a fresh dimension of Patois and RnB to their already eclectic sound.
The album features impressive collaborations, including musical icons Nile Rodgers and Seun Kuti, who infuse tracks Lights Out and Carry Me with their signature disco and afrobeat mastery.
Since forming in 2011 at the Leeds College of Music, Nubiyan Twist have become one of the most exciting groups in the UK music scene. Known for their infectious grooves and virtuosic musicianship, their energetic performances have captivated audiences around the world. Their previous albums, including Jungle Run (2019) and Freedom Fables (2021), have been widely celebrated, earning them numerous accolades and radio plays across BBC 6 Music and BBC Radio 2, as well as a TV debut on Later… with Jools Holland.
Eat Ethio
(Ethiopia / UK)
Eat Ethio is more than just a creative studio – it’s a movement that passionately celebrates the vibrant culture of Ethiopia. By seamlessly blending food, coffee, music, and artistry, they’ve created a platform where tradition meets contemporary innovation. Every project they undertake tells a story that honors Ethiopia’s rich heritage while showcasing its incredible diversity.
When Eat Ethio steps behind the DJ booth, they deliver more than music – they craft an auditory journey that reflects the soul of Ethiopia. Their sets are as dynamic as their creative vision, offering a perfect fusion of traditional rhythms and modern sounds.
Having Eat Ethio as part of the 2025 lineup feels like a natural and inspiring addition to Addis Jazz Festival. They will bring an energy that celebrates the local while connecting the festival’s global audience in a way only they can. We can’t wait for this unforgettable experience where music and culture come together at their finest!
Habibi Funk
(Uk)
Jannis Stürtz, the visionary behind the acclaimed Habibi Funk label, has also become a celebrated DJ known for his high-energy, vinyl-only sets. Drawing from a rich tapestry of funk, soul, jazz, punk, and hip-hop, he uncovers musical gems from the 1960s-80s across the Middle East and North Africa, reintroducing them to modern audiences through reissues and compilations, while also championing contemporary artists.
The Habibi Funk sound has carved a distinct niche in the global music scene, connecting deeply with fans through its unique blend of nostalgia and innovation. Stürtz’s shows consistently sell out, from residencies at London’s Jazz Cafe to headline performances at venues like KOKO Camden, La Bellevilloise in Paris, and Back From The Crate in Beirut.
In 2024, Habibi Funk expanded its impact with live showcases, bringing the label’s music to life on festival and club stages, featuring some of its most celebrated artists.
It is an incredible honor to welcome Habibi Funk to the Addis Jazz Festival 2025!
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.
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.
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For all general inquiries, please email info@addisjazzfestival.com