Mulatu Astatke
The ‘father of Ethio-jazz’, and one of Ethiopia’s most celebrated musicians and arrangers, performs timeless classics from across his career.
Last few tickets
Best known for changing the face of Ethiopian music during the ‘Swinging Addis’ era of the late 1960s and 70s, Mulatu Astatke is a true pioneer.
As the ‘father of Ethio-jazz’, the composer, vibraphonist and multi-instrumentalist created a movement born in the late 1960s, fusing jazz, Latin music and traditional Ethiopian music.
For six decades, Astatke has been developing this signature sound, with classics like ‘Yèkèrmo Sèw’ and ‘Yègellé Tezeta’ ensuring his enduring legacy.
Beyond leading his own bands, Astatke has worked as an arranger for many of Ethiopia’s leading artists, famously using traditional instruments in new ways. His influence culminated in the early 1970s through landmark recordings and high-profile collaborations, including a historic performance and mutual tribute with Duke Ellington during his tour of Ethiopia.
‘Throughout my life, I wanted to bring Ethio-jazz to all corners of the world for people to enjoy and I feel that I have succeeded in that,’ says Astatke. The world of music would definitely echo those sentiments.
Need to know
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Times & tickets
Dates, times and prices
Dates & times
17 Jun 2026, 7.30pm
Run time
2 hours and 30 minutes (approx)
All timings are approximate and subject to change
Standard entry
from £37 + £4 booking fee
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This event is held at the Royal Festival Hall Southbank Centre
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