Legendary Singer Mahmoud Ahmed Announces 'LeTarik' as His 26th and Final Album
Renowned Ethiopian vocalist Mahmoud Ahmed has announced his 26th and final studio album, 'LeTarik' ('For History'), concluding a legendary six-decade career. Produced in collaboration with Yisakal Entertainment, the album blends modern and traditional elements to preserve Ethiopia's musical heritage. A lead single will drop on the eve of the Ethiopian New Year, followed by the full album release in late September.
Legendary Ethiopian vocalist Mahmoud Ahmed has officially announced the release of his 26th studio album, "LeTarik" (meaning "For History"), representing the final major chapter of a historic artistic career spanning six decades, according to a report by Capital Ethiopia.
The historic announcement was made during a press conference held at the Sheraton Addis Hotel on August 26. Mahmoud Ahmed, widely recognized as one of the defining figures of modern Ethiopian music, stated that the album is designed to preserve the nation's rich musical heritage and pass its melodies, spirit, and cultural identity down to future generations.
According to the event organizers, the title "LeTarik" encapsulates the album's primary objective: to honor the legacy of pioneering Ethiopian musicians while establishing a comprehensive cultural record.
Musically, the album highlights Mahmoud Ahmed's signature vocal delivery and unique performance style, seamlessly blending modern instrumentation with traditional Ethiopian musical arrangements. The tracklist features a mix of brand-new compositions alongside nostalgic songs that explore themes of love, life philosophy, and core social values.
The ambitious project brought together a collaborative team of veteran and emerging lyricists, composers, arrangers, and music producers. Reflecting on his sixty-year musical journey during the press conference, Mahmoud urged the new generation of Ethiopian artists to embrace modern production techniques without losing touch with the country's unique cultural identity, traditional scales, and artistic heritage.
This final studio release follows Mahmoud Ahmed's final public stage performance last year, which marked his retirement from live concert appearances. Although he has retired from performing live, "LeTarik" is envisioned as his definitive artistic statement and a lasting contribution to the Ethiopian musical canon.
"LeTarik" is set to be distributed globally across major digital streaming networks, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, alongside other music outlets. A single from the album is scheduled for release on the eve of Enkutatash (the Ethiopian New Year), preceding the full album's official release at the end of September.
The project's coordination is being managed by Yisakal Entertainment in partnership with an international music distribution firm. The organizers noted that this strategic partnership aims to secure a wider global reach for the album while maintaining the absolute authenticity of Mahmoud's signature style.
Yisakal Entertainment expressed its commitment to honoring established Ethiopian legends, promoting their legacies, and introducing Ethiopian culture and history to global audiences through the creative industries.
The entertainment firm actively coordinates and manages both domestic and international musical events, concert platforms, and arts programs. Additionally, Yisakal Entertainment focuses on promoting the creations of both veteran and rising artists, managing distribution rights and contracts, producing audiovisual and digital media, and partnering with prominent media organizations for promotional outreach.