Born and raised in the vibrant neighbourhoods of Addis Ketema and Kolfe in Addis Ababa, Zerubabbel Mola emerged as a spirited child with an independent streak. He despised being told what to do and marched to the beat of his drum. This rebellious nature ultimately led him down the path of becoming a musician. Zerubabbel’s musical journey began as he was captivated by the rich tapestry of sounds surrounding him and honed his vocal skills by joining a choir. However, his life took a significant turn when his father departed for the United States. Deeply missing his father and grappling with melancholy, Zerubabbel stumbled upon a guitar tucked away beneath his father’s bed.
Despite lacking formal training, he instinctively began strumming the strings and discovered a familiar melody—the song “Zekiyos Achir Sew Neber,” meaning Zekiyos was a short guy in Amharic, a song he used to play as a child. In that moment, the guitar became his solace and connection to his father, igniting an unwavering love for playing the instrument. After gaining experience and refining his skills, Zerubabbel embarked on a musical journey that would define his career. He spent five transformative years working alongside the talented Mehari Brothers, immersing himself in their creative energy. Building upon this foundation, he joined forces with the renowned Zemen Band, where he spent two exhilarating years.
Seeking new horizons, Zerubabbel set his sights on South Africa, where he joined yet another band. After these events, his musical talent blossomed to a new height, propelling him toward an unstoppable trajectory. His artistic growth culminated in a highly acclaimed album called “Enfalot,” which featured fifteen sensational songs that resonated deeply with audiences far and wide. He is also the owner of six singles that are loved by many. Zerubabbel’s story is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. From his rebellious childhood to his heartfelt connection with music, he has emerged as a charismatic and beloved singer, captivating audiences with his powerful voice and magnetic stage presence. With each new chapter, Zerubabbel continues to enchant listeners, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene and solidifying his status as a true musical force to reckon with. EBR’s Eden Teshome had the chance to discuss with the singer for this exclusive.