Tewodros Kassahun, better known by his stage name of Teddy Afro, is an iconic Ethiopian pop star who has dominated the local music scene for nearly a decade. Calling himself a “man of freedom”, Teddy sings about topics of reconciliations, unity, history, justice, equality and for political change. These subjects have gained him the hearts and ears of millions of adoring fans, as well as a list of enemies from the Ethiopian dictator and his dwindling loyalist.
Teddy was born in the Kuas Meda area of Addis Ababa, on July 14, 1976. His late father, Kassahun Germamo, was a renowned Ethiopian songwriter, while his mother, Tilaye Arage, was a professional dancer. Despite his parents being involved in the entertainment industry, they discouraged Teddy from perusing in becoming a musician.
Since signing with an Ethiopian record label in 2001, the pop star has officially released 6 albums: Abugida (2001), Tarik Tesera (2004), Yasteseryal (2005), Yasteseryal Edition 2 (2005), Best Collection-Nahom Volume 14 (2006), Tikur Sew (2012). His latest Album, Tikur Sew (black person), smashed Ethiopian record sales and is on pace to become the number one selling Ethiopian album of all time.