From the vibrant and ever-evolving sonic landscape of Africa emerges a distinctive and brilliant sound, one that carries the very soul of Africa’s roots. This is the music of Laeke, a true son of the soil of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, who is not merely an artist but a modern-day musical architect. Refusing to be confined to a single role, Laeke masterfully wears many hats in the creative space. He is, first and foremost, a singer with a compelling voice, but also a profound and brilliant songwriter, an innovative record producer, and a gifted multi-instrumentalist. It is this rare combination of skills that allows him to construct sounds as melodic as they are heartfelt.
Laeke’s true genius lies in his ability to craft sonic fusions that feel both timeless and contemporary. He seamlessly blends the rich, deeply indigenous musical traditions of Ethiopia with a bold palette of global influences, including Rock, Jazz, and Soul. The result is something entirely distinctive and pure to the ear, a sound that is unmistakably Ethiopian yet universally relatable.
This blend is also made possible with his instrumental strength. He is an expert not only on the modern guitar but also on traditional Ethiopian instruments, such as the masinqo, a single-stringed lute. Laeke births something both traditional, new, and cool. This experimental spirit makes him a pivotal figure, creating a musical dialogue that unites the spirit of older generations with the restless energy of the youth.
While his songs are often defined as a sound of cultural movement and self-exploration, his work transcends these descriptions. His artistry is a full-bodied experience, evident in his carefully crafted projects. His 2023 Reqiq EP, a raw and emotionally charged five-track journey spanning 17 minutes, showcases his ability to convey profound feelings through potent, soul-touching compositions. He followed this with the acclaimed and boldly layered project Bahire Tibeb, a work that demonstrates his growing ambition and compositional depth, proving his artistry is on an upward trajectory.
Laeke’s influence extends far beyond his own recordings. As a sought-after producer, he has contributed his distinctive sonic vision to the work of other established Ethiopian artists, shaping the full-length albums of Jemberu Demeke, Wegdavit, and Dagmawit Ameha. His impact on the industry is being recognized on an international scale, earning him a nomination for Best African Rock Artist at the prestigious 2025 AFRIMA awards. Furthermore, his song Deq Wutn was featured in OkayAfrica’s selection of the Best East African songs of 2024, cementing his status as a leading voice in the region’s new wave.
Ultimately, Laeke’s music is more than just sound; it’s a heartbeat. It carries the soul of Ethiopia, the echoes of its ancient highlands, and the whispering of the cities, while dancing confidently to the rhythms of the wider world. He doesn’t just sing songs; he builds bridges. Bridges between generations, between the local and the global, and between the listener’s heart and a profound sense of heritage.
His work is a gentle, powerful reminder that the most authentic music doesn’t just live in the ears; it speaks directly to the soul. As his voice rises, it calls us all to remember where we come from, while dreaming boldly of where we are going. That is the gift of Laeke, a sound that feels like a cherished memory and a hopeful future, all at once.
Related: 49th Exclusive: Ebne Hakim, the artist taking Ethiopian music beyond borders.
