On a chilly Monday evening, I ventured into the heart of the Africa Jazz Village, nestled within the Ghion Hotel. As a jazz enthusiast, I had long dreamed of experiencing a live jazz night, but this was my first foray into such a vibrant setting.

As a lifelong jazz enthusiast, I had long dreamed of catching a live performance, but this was my first dive into a truly vibrant setting. I'd half-expected a sea of older faces, perhaps sipping cocktails in quiet reverence. Instead, the crowd was electric, a beautiful blend of late teens, thirty-somethings, and stylish forty-somethings, all drawn together by one common thread: the love of jazz.

The chilly air outside surrendered to the warm, candlelit embrace inside, where music promised to transcend age, time, and even expectation

Where Legends Are Made

The Africa Jazz Village stands as a testament to the rich musical heritage of Ethiopia, owned by none other than the legendary Dr. Mulatu Astatke, the father of Ethio-Jazz. This venue has become a sanctuary for jazz lovers and musicians across generations, uniting people through the universal language of music. Dr. Astatke, born in Jimma in the 1940s, has played an instrumental role in bringing jazz and Latin music influences to Ethiopia, seamlessly blending them with traditional sounds. His training at the renowned Berkley College of Music marked him as the first African to graduate from there, solidifying his legacy as a pioneer of Ethio-Jazz on the international stage.

The Music That Moved Us

I was excitedly awaiting what looked to be an impeccable evening at Africa Jazz Village on a rainy Monday night. The stage was set for a performance by The Four Star Band, featuring the talented Dawit Yifru, Giovani Reco, and Shimelis Beyene. To my delight, the legendary Girma Beyene made a surprise appearance, adding an extra layer of excitement to the night. This band, steeped in history, has played alongside iconic figures like Mahmoud Ahmed, yet their performance felt fresh and invigorating.

As the music began, I was instantly captivated by Dawit Yifru on the keyboard. He bobbed his head to the rhythm, casually glancing at his bandmates over the bridge of his glasses. It was clear that their performance was a spontaneous expression of creativity rather than a meticulously rehearsed routine. When transitioning from one piece to another, they leaned their heads to the side, listening intently to each other’s cues before diving into the next melody. The way the saxophone intertwined with the chill in the air stirred an unfamiliar feeling in my stomach an exhilarating blend of nostalgia and joy.

After about an hour of mesmerizing tunes, Girma Beyene graced the stage, infusing the atmosphere with a playful and coquettish energy. He launched into “Fikr Endekirar,” urging the crowd to rise and dance. His unique pronunciation made his Amharic sound almost like a foreign language, captivating everyone present. The audience responded with cheers and applause, fully immersed in the rhythm of the night.

When Greatness Shares a Stage

Just as I thought the evening couldn’t get any better, Dr. Mulatu himself stepped onto the stage. The crowd erupted in applause, rising from their seats to welcome him. He took his place at a prepared chair and played the conga drum with a calm yet luxurious demeanor. The synergy between Mulatu and Girma was palpable as they exchanged melodies and harmonies, creating an enchanting atmosphere that enveloped us all.

After a brief intermission filled with soft jazz music and lively chatter among the audience, the band returned to the stage. Following their intermission, the performance commenced with the enchanting "Degmo Endemin Alesh," delivered by Bahta Gebrehiwot himself. His captivating voice and serene presence transformed the atmosphere into a tranquil haven, setting the stage for a cascade of exquisite melodies that followed. The room was imbued with a sense of calm, as if each note was a gentle brushstroke painting a peaceful landscape in the hearts of the audience.

Cherished Memory

By the time the clock struck 11 PM, I realized I hadn’t just attended a concert, I had lived a memory.

Africa Jazz Village is more than a night out; it’s an experience that will change how you hear music, and maybe even how you feel it. Jazz fan or not, this place will seduce you.

The vibe? A perfect ten out of ten.

The people? Sweet, welcoming, effortlessly stylish.

Entry is 300 ETB, a bargain for a night soaked in pure artistry. And yes, food and drinks are available to round out the experience.

So, if you’re searching for a night that leaves your soul humming long after the final note, Africa Jazz Village is waiting, and trust me, it’s a night you’ll want to relive again and again

A Night of Soulful Melodies at African Jazz Village