BBC Africa is reporting that Ethiopian singer Eyob Mekonnen has died. The popular reggae singer suffered a stroke last Tuesday in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. Fans of the singer helped raise money for his treatment following the stroke. A Facebook page entitled, ‘Let Us Pray for Eyob Mekonnen’ was built last week.
Mekonnen was flown to Nairobi, Kenya for treatment on Saturday, but died on Sunday. The author reports:
“Born 1975 in the small town of Jijiga, in eastern Ethiopia, Eyob set up a five-man group called Zion Band, which offered a ‘reggae beat with a distinctive Ethiopian cast,’ Yisakal Entertainment said.
His anthems ‘promote morality, love, peace and social consciousness’, the promoter said.
Eyob’s debut album ‘Kal’ came out three years ago to great national acclaim and he had just started his international career, touring the US, Canada and Europe in June, the company said.
Mekonnen’s body will be returned to Ethiopia on Tuesday and funeral services will be held for the singer on Wednesday. He was 37.
Read more at BBC News Africa.
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