Ejigayehu Shebabaw’s ‘Tinager Adwa Lyric Song’ Analysis:

Focus on the Nationalist Role

Abstract

The principal aim of this paper was to analyse the major themes of the lyric of ‘Adwa' by Ejigayehu Shebabaws‘, a prominent Ethiopian musician known for blending elements of nationalism, humanism, political and social activism in her lyric song. The paper focuses on understanding how Egigayhu’s lyrics reflect themes of nationalism, humanism, patriotism, and the quest for unity, and equality within the Ethiopian context. The lyric recounts the significance of Adwa's victory over the invading Italian army and goes to the extent of asserting that Adwa is an identity of freedom. The paper also highlights Ejigayehu’s role as a national figure and flag-waver whose music serves as a medium for expressing societal concerns and advocating for patriotism. Finally, the analysis of this paper elucidates the ways in which Ejigayehu’s lyric song contributes to ongoing discourses surrounding Ethiopian identity, social healing, solidarity, dignity, and brevity of the society as the most recurring ones.