Ethio-jazz

Ethio-jazz is an evocative fusion genre, blending traditional Ethiopian music scales and rhythms with the improvisational elements of jazz. Developed during the 1960s and 1970s under the influential guidance of Mulatu Astatke, this genre marries the pentatonic scales and modal sounds of Ethiopian folk with funk beats, soul, and jazz harmonies. Instruments like the masinko and the krar provide an authentic Ethiopian sound, while horns, keyboards, and guitars infuse a broader musical conversation. Ethio-jazz is known for its ethereal grooves and captivating melancholy, often accompanied by a lively brass section that resonates with a deep cultural heritage. The genre's raw and passionate energy manifests in its haunting melodies, which reflect Ethiopia’s rich musical legacy reimagined through a cosmopolitan lens.

Top Sub-Genres
Amharic Pop
Latest Ethio-jazz Release
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Ozim! ("ATL Smooth Mix")
Single - Released May 2, 2025
Top Artists Spotify Logo
Mulatu Astatke
Emahoy Tsege Mariam Gebru
Hailu Mergia
Dahlak Band
Akalé Wubé
Girma Bèyènè
Top Playlists
World Music 🌍 6 Ethio-jazz artists
Pitchfork Music Festival 2024 2 Ethio-jazz artists
The Sound of Oromo Pop 2 Ethio-jazz artists
The Sound of Mezmur 2 Ethio-jazz artists
The Needle / Brazil - Underground 1 Ethio-jazz artist
The Sound of Swiss Reggae 1 Ethio-jazz artist

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