A Fitting Farewell: Mulatu Astatke's Final Concert In London

Sun Dec 28 2025 14:17:04 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Ethiopian jazz pioneer Mulatu Astatke bids farewell to his fans at an emotional final concert in London, celebrating over six decades of musical innovation.

At the age of 82, Mulatu Astatke, known as the 'Godfather of Ethiopian jazz', performed his last live concert in London, wrapping up a remarkable 60-year journey in music. Astatke's unique fusion of traditional Ethiopian sounds with jazz has charmed audiences worldwide, leaving behind a profound legacy.

Ethiopian jazz musician Mulatu Astatke smiled as he held his arms aloft to acknowledge his audience for the last time.

Last month in London, the 82-year-old pioneer, who has done much to bring his blend of musical styles to the world, played his final live concert after a six-decade performing career.

Twenty years ago, he gained a wider listenership after the soundtrack for the 2005 Hollywood film Broken Flowers included his music, and the use of one of his recordings in last year's best-picture-Oscar-nominated Nickel Boys saw further interest.

But since the 1960s he has used the studio and rehearsal room as a laboratory where he has mixed musical styles to create what he calls the 'science' of Ethio-jazz.

Outside, it was a cold November evening, but inside the West End venue, Mulatu was bathed in the warm embrace of a crowd eager to get one last glimpse of this alchemist at work.

Dressed in a shirt featuring work by Ethiopian artist Afework Tekle, he slowly and steadily walked on stage. Squeezing past a set of congas he came to his signature instrument – the vibraphone.

With two pink-felted mallets in his right hand and one in the left, he began to pick out the mesmeric rhythm and melody, expertly striking the xylophone-like metal bars creating a delicate, resonant sound. The first song was based on a 4th Century tune from the Ethiopian Orthodox church, a nod to his musical heritage and the Ethiopian pentatonic scale that gives his sound its unique flavour when combined with other jazz traditions from around the world.

After the concert, Mulatu reflected on the experience, saying, 'It was a beautiful show. Really enjoyed it,' though he refrained from discussing the emotions behind saying goodbye to his global fanbase. Fellow musician Dexter Story characterized the event as 'bittersweet', expressing sadness at losing such a vibrant performing artist.

Despite retiring from live performances, Astatke remains committed to extending the reach of Ethiopian music and culture worldwide, stating emphatically, 'It's not the end.' His legacy, steeped in innovation and cultural pride, will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.