Mulatu Astatke

Essential Albums

  • Éthiopiques, Vol. 4: Ethio Jazz & Musique Instrumentale (1969-1974)

Artist Playlists

Live Albums

About Mulatu Astatke

Born in 1943, the vibraphonist-arranger Mulatu Astatke is known as the father of Ethiopian jazz or Ethio-jazz. Unusual for an African musician in the early '60s, Astatke studied music at Western schools, including the Berklee College Of Music in Boston, and he would maintain ties to Western academic instrutions throughout his career. He also performed with the Duke Ellington Orchestra during their 1971 African tour, and, more recently, has collaborated with the Either/Orchestra. Astatke also has had an active career producing Ethiopian artists, including the singer Mahmoud Ahmed. His music is featured on Volume 4 of the Ethiopiques series and can also be heard in the 2005 Jim Jarmusch film BROKEN FLOWERS.

HOMETOWN
Jimma, Kaffa Province, Ethiopian Empire
BORN
19 de diciembre de 1943
GENRE
Jazz

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