Ethiopian Music Royalty Meets The New Wave: Selamino and AfroNile Drop Stunning Amapiano-Afrobeat Remix of a Tilahun Gessesse Classic.

By Dagmawit Zerihun
Published on 11/17/25

Ethiopian music has witnessed a groundbreaking moment this weekend with the release of a sensational new track: "Tiz Alegn YeTintu" by the dynamic production duo AfroNile, featuring the unparalleled genius of the "Father of Lead Guitar," Selamino.

 
This isn't just a cover; it’s a cultural fusion masterwork. AfroNile, composed of Dave on the Track and Selamino himself (as seen on the compelling cover art), have taken the iconic song, originally immortalized by the late, great Legend Tilahun Gessesse, and reimagined it for the global stage.

 
The renowned guitarist Selam Woldemariam, affectionately known as Selamino, is a giant of Ethiopian and Eritrean music whose career spans over four decades. His contribution to the sound of modern Ethiopian music is immeasurable, earning him the moniker:

• "The Father of Lead Guitar"

• "The Jimi Hendrix of Ethiopia"

 
Born in Addis Ababa in 1954, Selamino's musical journey began early, influenced by gospel music and the acoustic guitar. He rose to prominence through his work with some of Ethiopia's most influential and cherished bands, including the ROHA Band, a group central to the Golden Age of Ethiopian music.

Throughout his prolific career, Selamino has been credited with playing on an astonishing number of recordings over 250 albums a testament to his mastery, versatility, and enduring influence as a session musician, arranger, and producer. His signature guitar style is instantly recognizable and has shaped the soundscapes of countless Ethiopian artists.

 
The production seamlessly blends the infectious rhythms of South Africa's Amapiano with the propulsive pulse of Afrobeat, all while maintaining the deep, soulful core of Ethiopia's cultural roots. This marriage of genres provides an entirely fresh context for the classic melody.

 
Adding a stunning vocal layer to this sonic tapestry is singer Mahlet Negash brings a contemporary urgency and emotional resonance to the beloved song. The track is part of the "The New Wave" movement, signaling a vibrant future for Ethiopian music's global appeal.

 
The cover art, which powerfully features Selamino side-by-side with his younger collaborator, Dave on the Track, speaks volumes. For music aficionados, the presence of Selam Woldemariam, famously known as Selamino, is a monumental event. His signature lead guitar the sound that has defined generations of Ethiopian music is the anchor that grounds this modern production in history.

 
This collaboration is a perfect example of music bridging generations and geographies. By honoring the legacy of Tilahun Gessesse while fearlessly exploring new soundscapes, AfroNile and Selamino have delivered an instant hit that is already setting the pace for music in the Horn of Africa and beyond.