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Hello, I am

Girum Gizaw

an Ethio-Jazz Musician

Hello, I am

Girum Gizaw

an Ethio-Jazz Musician

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My Story

Fortunate to grow up in church, my musical journey began at 12, sparked by the soulful Tizeta minor of my cousin and the immersive tunes within the church. I fell in love with its enchanting sounds, a sentiment deepened when a visiting guitar teacher imparted basic chords and techniques at our school. Eager to apply newfound knowledge, a few students, including myself, organized small concerts—an invaluable practice opportunity. This marked the start of a musical exploration shaping my unique style. My guitar playing reflects a blend of sounds, not solely rooted in tradition but influenced by a desire to infuse diverse cultural elements into accessible melodies. This uniqueness springs from techniques observed in various African sounds and extracting different African dialects and tribal accentuations.
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Music Journey

Embarking on my musical journey, I’ve faced challenges and triumphs, with my most significant achievement being the creation and success of Meleket Band over the past 7 years. We’ve carved a unique niche as one of Ethiopia’s few all-jazz bands, redefining Ethio-Jazz by blending Ethiopian cultural sounds with the improvisational spirit of jazz. Meleket holds a special place in my heart, emerging during a pivotal career moment. Navigating setbacks and diverse musical endeavors led to founding Meleket with friends Abiy and Mebratu—a band challenging norms and inspiring aspiring musicians. Our journey is a testament to the resilience and creative spirit fueling Ethiopian jazz.
Sharing the stage with my biggest inspiration, the “godfather of Ethio-Jazz,” Mulatu Astatke, was truly a moment like no other—a profound culmination of my musical odyssey as well.

Discography

Explore Girum Gizaw’s musical evolution in the vibrant realm of Ethio-Jazz, unveiling a captivating journey through his diverse discography.

COLOR

Girums paints a vibrant canvas on his debut album, “Color.” This electrifying fusion blends modern jazz with Ethiopia’s rich tapestry of sounds. Each track explodes with color, weaving intricate guitar lines with traditional instruments like the masenqo and kebero. Feel the soul of Ethiopia soar on soaring melodies.

girum gizaw- color album cover
girum gizaw- color album cover

Girum Gizaw's
Live Sessions

Vol. 1

Transport yourself to serenity with Girum Gizaw’s Live Sessions Vol 1, a mesmerizing Ethio-Jazz masterpiece. Let the live magic unfold, bringing tranquility and the essence of Ethiopian jazz to your ears, wherever you are.

girum live sessions vol 1
girum live sessions vol 1

Girum Gizaw's
Live Sessions

Vol. 2

Dive into tranquility with Girum Gizaw’s Live Sessions Vol 2, an enchanting Ethio-Jazz experience. Immerse yourself in the live magic, as this extraordinary volume continues to bring the soulful rhythms of Ethiopian jazz to your ears, creating an unforgettable musical journey.

girum live sesions vol 2
girum live sesions vol 2

Girum Gizaw's
Live Sessions

Vol. 3

Embark on a soulful journey with Girum Gizaw’s Live Sessions Vol 3, a captivating Ethio-Jazz odyssey. Let the live performance transport you, as this volume continues to weave the rich tapestry of Ethiopian jazz into your listening space. Immerse in the magic.

girum live sesions vol 3
girum live sesions vol 3

Girum Gizaw's
Live Sessions

Vol. 4

Elevate your senses with Girum Gizaw’s Live Sessions Vol 4, a spellbinding Ethio-Jazz spectacle. Experience the live magic that continues to redefine the boundaries of Ethiopian jazz, bringing a symphony of soulful rhythms directly to your ears. Immerse yourself in the enchantment

Girum Gizaw's
Second Album

coming soon

Every Tuesday

Mesti Restaurant

7:00 PM - 3:00 PM

with The Girum Gizaw Quintet

For Inquries

Call

+251 911 34 64 35

Write an Email

letstalk@girumgizaw.com