SELAMNESH ZÉMÉNÉ

Born in Gondar, the former capital of Ethiopia, Selamnesh Zéméné follows in the footsteps of the Azmaris, those improvisational bards known for their eloquence and rebellious spirit. As an heir to this tradition, she has developed a powerful voice that is both incantatory and deeply expressive.

She is the niece of singer Eténèsh Wassié, a leading figure in Ethio-jazz, and has carved out her own unique artistic world where poetry, musical heritage, and contemporary energy intertwine. In Addis Ababa, her rock-influenced approach has earned her widespread recognition.

Accompanied since 2011 by Badume’s Band—a collective of European musicians specialising in Ethiopian music and the backing band for the genre’s greatest figures such as Mahmoud Ahmed and Alémayéhu Eshèté—Selamnesh continues her creative work, balancing fidelity to tradition with reinterpretation, as evidenced in particular by the album Yaho Bele / Say Yeah.