One of Ethiopia’s most famous and most influential performers, Mahmoud Ahmed turns 75 on May 08, 2016. To celebrate this milestone, a photo exhibition is being held in Addis Ababa at Marriot Hotel starting from Tuesday, May 3 till May 9. The exhibit documents Mohammed’s musical career from early days to becoming the leading voice of the country’s ‘Golden Age’ in the ’60s and ’70s, and his incredible body of work with 75 photos taken by different photographers.A bona fide Guraghe man, Mahmoud had a life time’s worth of odd jobs before rising to stardom, including an injera seller, a shoe shine boy, night club bouncer, and handyman at Arizona Club. Most of the popular Ethiopian singers used to perform in this club and one day he was given a chance to show his talent on stage and was immediately hired by the Imperial Body Guard Band until he joined the Ibex Band at Ras Hotel in the early 70s.
Mahmoud’s star ascended and this fateful opportunity led to a long term engagement until 1980. Between his record store and constant demand for his performances, he played mainly in his home country. His fame grew abroad as Ethiopians migrated around the world and some of his early recordings were re-released. In 2007, the BBC gave him their prestigious World Music Award.
(The second photo: Mahmoud Ahmed, Alemayehu Eshete and Getatchew hanging out with an unidentified collegue in The Hague. 2009.By Nick Helderman)
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Celebrating Mahmoud Ahmed at 75 with Photos
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