Abdi Nuressa - [2009] - Irree Aadaa [usa+ethiopia]

             Another rising star is the Washington-based Oromo singer Abdi Nuressa. The 34-year-old singer-songwriter is a breath of fresh air, combining love, politics and empowerment. 

          Born in the Western part of Oromia region and brought up in Addis Ababa, Abdi emigrated to the US as a teenager. He was naturally influenced by the different cultures to which he was exposed but has remained true to his roots, as clearly seen in his music. He kicked off his singing career by performing cover versions of old Oromo classics such as those of Ali Birra. His debut album, Iree Adda, was released at the end of July 2009, marking his arrival on the music scene. The album, bearing an English subtitle The Power of Culture, can be seen as a political statement and an expression of the longing to return to his roots. The strong and energetic rhythms, taken from the Oromo tradition, are mingled in a subtle way with the sounds of reggae, funk, folk and hip-hop. 

Abdi Nuressa - Ayyaana Laalattuu

      One song in particular on that album, 'Ayyaana Laalattu' (Afan Oromo for 'opportunist'), put Abdi Nuressa on the map. Crossing the language barrier, the song was a big hit both in Ethiopia and abroad, among people who speak the language and those who don't. It proved the star's argument that "if we Oromo artists can deliver quality music, the language can never be a barrier, especially in our time."

Abdi Nuressa - 01 - Nutuu Laafe (4:50)

Abdi Nuressa - 02 - Ee Sobaan Wallolle (5:26)

Abdi Nuressa - 03 - Qotee Bulaa (4:32)

Abdi Nuressa - 04 - Utuman Sijaaladhuu (4:05)

Abdi Nuressa - 05 - Tokkummaatu Wayyaa (6:24)

Abdi Nuressa - 06 - Yaa Raahaa (6:05)

Abdi Nuressa - 07 - Sinbirree Ta'ee (3:58)

Abdi Nuressa - 08 - Wal-argaan Hinoolu (5:01)

Abdi Nuressa - 09 - Shaggoyee Xabanna (4:39)

Abdi Nuressa - 10 - Guyyaa Gammachuu (6:14)

Abdi Nuressa - 11 - Argee Laalee Laalee (5:58)

Abdi Nuressa - 12 - Ayyaana Laalattuu (4:48)

Abdi Nuressa - 13 - Bareeduu Baadiyaa (4:52)