Ethiopia Mourns Cultural Singer Semahagn Belew, Known as ‘Seme Balageru’

June 16, 2026

Mintesinot Nigussie

Ethiopia’s cultural music scene is mourning the death of veteran singer Semahagn Belew, widely known by his stage name Seme Balageru, who died on Monday after being taken to hospital following a sudden illness.

Semahagn, a prominent figure in Ethiopia’s traditional and cultural music landscape, was transported to medical care by his children after experiencing a deterioration in health. He died shortly after arrival at the hospital, according to Tikvah Ethiopia.

Born and raised in Bahir Dar in the Amhara region, Semahagn began his artistic journey at the age of 14, joining the city’s children’s cultural group. He later developed his craft through participation in several performance ensembles, including Ayoama and the Gish Abay cultural troupe, which shaped his long-standing career in Ethiopian music.

Over more than three decades, Semahagn became known for his contribution to preserving and popularising Ethiopian cultural music, blending traditional styles with contemporary stage performance. He also performed in various clubs and venues, where his music reached wider urban audiences while maintaining its cultural roots.

Among his well-known songs are Balager, Debot Ensera, Zegegna, Alesh Neger, Zinabu and Alemn Endeminsh, works that helped define his artistic identity and sustained his popularity over the years.

Beyond his musical career, Semahagn was widely remembered for his humour and engaging stage presence. In past interviews, he described his guiding values as loyalty to his country, his family and his profession.

“I love three things: my country, my marriage and my work,” he was quoted as saying.

He was a father of four and had been married for more than 35 years. Colleagues and admirers described him as a performer who consistently championed Ethiopian cultural music and left a lasting imprint on the country’s artistic heritage.

Funeral arrangements will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2026 at Bulbula Medhane Alem Church in Addis Ababa.