In brief
Teddy Afro, Ethiopia's prominent musician, has released a controversial new song titled 'Das Tal', expressing grief over governmental issues. The track has gained over seven million views on YouTube, reflecting the artist's persistent critique of political authorities in a country where dissent is often met with severe consequences. This latest track builds on Afro's previous works that address themes of unity and cultural identity amidst ongoing socio-political tensions.
In a country where criticising the authorities has often landed people in trouble, the latest song from Ethiopia's biggest musician – which appears to condemn the government – is attracting attention. Teddy Afro's track Das Tal, meaning 'put up the tent' in English, has been viewed more than seven million times on YouTube since its release on Thursday. Referencing a traditional mourning tent, Teddy Afro – whose real name is Tewodros Kassahun – sings that he is grieving a country he says has been lost.The build-up to the song's release had already drawn controversy after a preview event for journalists in the capital Addis Ababa failed to go ahead, for reasons which are unclear. The spirit of being Ethiopian is now pushed away, the 49-year-old laments on Das Tal. Now I understand the sorrow and pain. Where can someone go to mourn, where do you cry? In the place that raised me, in the village where I grew up, I have become a stranger, like someone with no country.The star has been a thorn in the side of previous governments. Two decades ago he was imprisoned for 16 months for being involved in a hit-and-run, which he claims was politically motivated. His last album, 2017's Ethiopia, enjoyed significant sales in the country and topped the Billboard World Albums chart for weeks. However, its official release in the country was blocked by the authorities due to widespread anti-government protests at the time.All of my music is based on love, Teddy Afro told the BBC in 2017. He quoted Martin Luther King, saying: Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that. His latest song builds on concerns from his 2022 track about rising tribalism, reflecting disillusionment with government actions, including the two-year civil war in northern Ethiopia. As the country gears up for upcoming elections, Teddy Afro's critiques are likely to resonate even more strongly as calls for unity continue amidst ongoing conflict.
