Name: Girma Beyene at Bethesda Theater
Start: 2024-07-18T18:30:00-04:00
Location: Bethesda Theater

Girma Beyene - vocalist, composer, lyricist, pianist, band leader - is also a gifted arranger, with more than sixty titles to his credit. His characteristic settings played a vital role in lending to the songs of the Golden Age of Ethiopian popular music their unique and timeless appeal. What’s more, he composed "Muziqawi Silt," the most covered Ethiopian song of all time worldwide.
After the death of his wife in 1984, Girma ceased performing for more than 30 years. Even if he had decided to remain in retirement, his early work alone would forever guarantee this musical Titan a lofty position in the firmament of late twentieth century Ethiopian popular song. To the delight of legions of fans who never forgot him, as well as of the current generation of his admirers, he returned to the stage in 2015, with the Paris-based band Akale Wube. This collaboration led to the recording of a collection of songs that Girma had been involved with in the 1960s and ‘70s. The recordings were released under the title “Mistakes on Purpose,” as volume 30 of the renowned "Ethiopiques" series. Girma’s comeback continued with acclaimed performances in Washington, DC and New York City.
What better time than now for Girma Beyene to appear once again in the USA? Those who loved the iconic singer back then should jump at the chance not only to hear and see him today, but also to introduce his artistry to their children and grandchildren. Anyone who has followed the career of this living legend from the beginning, and also seen one of his recent shows, will tell you that Girma Beyene has never sung better nor been more in sync with the large crowds he draws. Attending his rare U.S. performance at the Bethesda Theater on July 18th is a golden opportunity that you must not miss!