Teddy Afro’s Music: A Fusion of Nationalism, Humanism, and the Cry for Ethiopian Democracy (Published)
This qualitative analysis employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to explore the song lyrics of “Naʾət (ʾəyamämäw qut’ər 2) Naat (Paining No. 2) ” by Teddy Afro, a prominent Ethiopian musician known for blending elements of nationalism, humanism, and political activism in his music. The study focuses on understanding how Teddy’s lyrics reflect themes of nationalism, humanism, and the quest for democracy within the Ethiopian context. Drawing upon CDA, the analysis examines linguistic and discursive strategies employed in the lyrics to convey socio-political messages. The study highlights Teddy’s role as a cultural figure and activist whose music serves as a medium for expressing societal concerns and advocating for change. Through the lens of CDA, the analysis elucidates the ways in which Teddy’s music contributes to ongoing discourses surrounding Ethiopian identity, social justice, and democratic aspirations. Ultimately, this research provides insights into the intersection of music, politics, and culture in Ethiopia, shedding light on the socio-political significance of Teddy’s musical contributions.
Keywords: CDA, Democracy, Humanism, Nationalism, Politics, lyrics, unity
Ethiopia’ in Selected Lyrics of Tilahun Gessesse and Tewodros Kassahun Songs: A Comparative Analysis (Published)
The purpose of this study was to make a critical discourse analysis on the theme ‘Ethiopia’. Lyrics of selected songs of two prominent artists (Tilahun Gessese and Tewodros Kassahun) were used as corpus for the study. Classical compare and contrast method was employed for analysis; point-by-point and text-by-text organizational schemes were used to compare texts. The results of the study revealed that both artists have shown a remarkably similar approach in their music philosophy. Both singers firmly voiced ‘Ethiopia’ as ‘mother land’ for its people. Both artists discoursed on historical and natural heritage of the country as well as the patriotism sacrificed to preserve these heritages. Finally, the study also disclosed that both singers advocate for unity and love of ‘mother land’ to assure its sovereignty.
Keywords: Classical, Discourse Analysis, Ethiopia, Music, Patriotism, Sovereignty., lyrics, motherland, solidarity