A Farewell to the Pioneer: Mulatu Astatke's Last Concert

Sun Dec 28 2025 13:59:52 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Mulatu Astatke, the revered godfather of Ethiopian jazz, held his final live concert in London, celebrating a groundbreaking six-decade career that blended traditional Ethiopian melodies with jazz.

At 82 years old, renowned Ethiopian jazz musician Mulatu Astatke graced the stage for the last time in London, captivating audiences with his innovative Ethio-jazz sound. Following his 60-year musical journey, which gained renewed recognition through popular films, Astatke's poignant farewell resonated with fans who celebrated both his legacy and the cultural gifts he has shared worldwide.

Ethiopian jazz musician Mulatu Astatke smiled as he held his arms aloft to acknowledge his audience for the last time.

Last month in London, the 82-year-old pioneer, who has done much to bring his blend of musical styles to the world, played his final live concert after a six-decade performing career.

Twenty years ago, he gained a wider listenership after the soundtrack for the 2005 Hollywood film Broken Flowers included his music, and the use of one of his recordings in last year's best-picture-Oscar-nominated Nickel Boys saw further interest.

But since the 1960s he has used the studio and rehearsal room as a laboratory where he has mixed musical styles to create what he calls the science of Ethio-jazz.

Outside, it was a cold November evening, but inside the West End venue, Mulatu was bathed in the warm embrace of a crowd eager to get one last glimpse of this alchemist at work.

Dressed in a shirt featuring work by Ethiopian artist Afework Tekle, he slowly and steadily walked on stage, squeezing past a set of congas to reach his signature instrument – the vibraphone.

With two pink-felted mallets in his right hand and one in the left, he began to pick out the mesmeric rhythm and melody, expertly striking the xylophone-like metal bars creating a delicate, resonant sound. The first song was based on a 4th Century tune from the Ethiopian Orthodox church, a nod to his musical heritage.

It was a beautiful show. Really enjoyed it, Mulatu told the BBC in his gentle voice after the concert. However, when asked how he felt saying goodbye to his international fans, he remained tight-lipped.

For US musician and composer Dexter Story, the gig was bittersweet. It was so vibrant and so alive. A reverent and gracious… and wonderful, wonderful energy, he said. I'm very saddened that we won't have this genius… touring the world.

Despite the conclusion of his touring career, Mulatu remains determined to promote Ethiopian music and ensure its unique sounds receive the recognition they deserve.

His tracks weave together traditional instruments from his homeland like the washint (flute), kebero (drum), and the masenqo, a single-stringed fiddle, demonstrating the rich cultural tapestry that defines his music.

As he steps away from the stage, Mulatu reassures fans that, even though the touring may be over, his legacy will continue to resonate worldwide, celebrating a career filled with passion and profound influence.