Mulatu Astatke

Mulatu Astatke is an 82-year-old Ethiopian musician widely regarded as the 'Godfather of Ethiopian Jazz.' He is known for pioneering a unique blend of musical styles that has brought Ethiopian jazz to a global audience. Astatke is newsworthy because he recently performed his final live concert in London after a six-decade performing career. This event marks the end of his active performance career, although his influence on music continues. Twenty years ago, he gained a wider listenership. His music remains relevant and significant, influencing contemporary artists and contributing to the diverse landscape of global jazz. Harry Styles, for example, included jazz artists in his curated Meltdown festival, highlighting the genre's continued appeal.