There are conflicting narrations for Tilahun’s decision to move to the capital Addis Ababa. Despite the resistance from his family, he was determined to make it as a singer. At the age of 13, he runs away from home in the back of a loaded track. Euoel’s advice for the young Tilahun was to move to the capital Addis Ababa and try to join a theater house. When the Hager Fiker Theater musicians with Negatua Kelkaye and Eyoel Yohannes came to his school to perform, at the age of 12, Tilahun approached them to discuss his interest to become a singer.
Tilahun knew he wanted to be a singer at a very early age. He attended Ras Gobena elementary school. Tilahun was raised by his grandmother who took him in after both of his parents decided to leave Wolliso. His parents separated when he was very young. Tilahun was born on 29 September 1940 in Wolliso, Oromia region. He is one of the most recognized personalities in the country, and the one who reached the maximum height of fame in the music industry.
His incredible voice, impeccable performance, and gracious appearance made him the most popular singer in the country. Tilahun broke into the Ethiopian music scene in what is considered the Ethiopian golden age of music, the 1960s, and 70s. Tilahun Gesesse was an Ethiopian superstar and legendary singer, nick named ‘The Voice”.
