Ethiopian singer releases debut album

Ethiopia-based singer Hewan Gebrewold has officially debuted with her first solo album, Hewan, which translates to Eve.

The album was released on July 3.

"I'd describe this project as me finding myself in a new sound. It's a fusion with an Ethiopian scale, all about love," the singer explained.

Completed within one and a half years, the album contains 11 tracks with features from Ethiopian legend Teddy Afro on the song Assbet, and Getachew Hailemariam on Addis Aydelem.

Despite challenges, including the album masters being stolen and leaked ahead of their intended release, the singer's team was able to guide the album towards success. It debuted at #1 on the iTunes World Music Chart and achieved nine million accumulated streams on YouTube with over one million views.

"I received great feedback already. My hope is to be in international music and do collaborations with different artistes," Gebrewold said.

Currently signed to Irie Sounds International, Gebrewold was originally a member of a group called Jano Band and released two albums with them. Now making a name for herself as a solo artiste, she is well on her way to a successful career, securing nominations in two categories for the 2022 Afrima Awards, namely Best Female Artiste in East Africa and Best Breakthrough Artiste. She believes that much more is in store for her.

"This is just the beginning. I will go back to touring, recording and collaborating with great artistes and producers, both in Ethiopia and internationally," she stated.