Amarech Esatu - Ethiopian Gospel Music

Amarech Esatu Forsido (Hadiyyisa: Amaarachchi Isaatu) was born in Qanqicho, Duna District of the Hadiyya Zone in 1968. After being baptized in the Kale Heywet church, she became a member of the Tsega Choir of the Shonkola Kale Heywet Church. The church district evangelist, Simeon Sullaamo, encouraged her to use her musical gift for God.

In 1983, Amarech started singing as a solo singer. She was one of the two first female gospel singers using Hadiyyisa as a language of worship. Amarech drew some inspiration from Kebebush Atebo, the first female gospel singer in the neighbouring Kambaata area. Among Amarech’s supporters were her father, singer and evangelist Samuel Siboro (father of gospel singer Yosef Samuel) as well as a member of Mekane Yesus Church, Mr Mitike [father’s name?].

Amarech was a passionate singer. She introduced clapping and rhythmic body movements to solo singing in her congregation. At that time, the leadership of the congregation disapproved these innovations and disciplined her. On the other hand, her worshipping helped spark a revival in some congregations. Over time, clapping and body movements became very popular, especially in Jajura town.

Amarech was one of the very few women who dared to publically confront the regional leader during the Ethiopian Revolution, Lt. Petros Gebre. She has been instrumental in encouraging Christians in her area to be strong in faith.

After moving to Shone town in the Badawacho enclave and starting her family, Amarech reduced the number of her public appearances as a gospel singer.