The Ethiopian Orthodox church, with a followership of about 44% of Ethiopia’s population, has a long tradition of gospel music. However, over the years its dominance has been challenged by the emergence of various other religious factions.
Today Muslims make up an estimated 34% of the population and Protestants an estimated 18%. Nevertheless, any keen listener will notice that the music of the Ethiopian Orthodox church has an influence on most Christian music in the country. Millions of Ethiopians have in recent years converted to Protestantism, many of them coming from an Orthodox background and attracted by its comparatively less rigid and hierarchical structure. Some are also attracted by the music of the Protestant church, which typically uses modern musical instruments played by a full band.Partly as a result of this, modern gospel music in Ethiopia has experienced a shift in perceptions. In the past, Ethiopian gospel artists were expected to live an austere life. Today this is slowly changing and it is no longer frowned upon for a gospel artists to earning from their craft.On the media front, however, the church in general stilll has some way to go. Religious groups are not allowed to own broadcast media houses.
Apr 05, 2017 Song 5 Mihiretih; Artist Harrer Amanuel Choir; Album Yelem Yaluh Yelum,Vol.4; Licensed to YouTube by CD Baby (on behalf of Cmm Studio) Song Tsehai Ati'telkim; Artist.
However, there are few satellite TV channels that broadcast religious sermons and music. Africa TV caters for an Islamic audience, while El Shaddai TV targets protestant churches. Religious groups are allowed to have their own print media and are therefore able to advertise new albums in public.One of the best-known gospel artists in Ethiopia at the moment is Sofia Shibabaw, the sister of popular singer. Loved by many for her extraordinary voice, to date Sofia has released two albums: Sema Belew (tell Him to hear) and Fikir Kemeqabir Belay (love beyond the grave).
She has also collaborated with many Christian artists on their own albums. Many people laud Sofia for her unique approach to gospel music. For example, her 2015 hit ‘Zeraf Le Geta’ (hail to my lord) uses traditional battle cries ( Shilela), war song melodies, traditional Ethiopian costumes and weapons to depict the war against the devil (in the video symbolized by young people smoking). While many appreciate Sofia’s creativity, critics of her work disapprove of the 'battle' analogy.
Popularly known as Dagi, is another popluar Ethiopian gospel artist whose music inspires many. He has released various albums, including Kalina Gebre in 2009 and Tichelhalehu (I’ve left all for you) in 2012. He has released singles such as ‘Yenee Geta Wodhalehu' and 'Yalef Yalefewo' which are full of praise for the many wonderful things that God has done.meanwhile infuses elements of jazz into his gospel songs. A singer, arranger and producer, Dawit is regarded as Ethiopia’s best and most influential artists in Christian jazz music. He not only sings but also teaches music at the Mekane Yesus School of Jazz Music. He is also a member of the Zema for Christ gospel band. His album Ethibekehalehu (I will wait for you) has earned him a loyal following of fans.Other prominent artists of gospel music in Ethiopia inclde Jossi (Yosef) Kassa, and Rozi Kashay.