The Passing of the Legendary Ali Mohammed Birra
(OLF-OLA Press Release)
The Oromo nation lost a towering figure today. Indeed, art lost one of her devoted sons in Ali Birra. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Oromo nation, friends of the Oromo, families, and friends of Ali Mohammed Birra during this difficult time. We express our heartfelt sadness and condolences to Ali’s fans around the world.
Born in Dire Dawa city of Eastern Oromia, Ali Mohammed Birra lived an incredible life of dedication and service. Throughout his long career that spans decades, Ali Birra served his people as a freedom fighter, educator, and entertainer.
Ali was a pioneer of unique styles that are admired the world over. For the Oromo, however, his works play a role that exceeds the standard entertainment value. Ali’s music is an essential part of mobilizing the youth, educating the masses, and uniting the Oromo nation under a common purpose.
Consistent to a fault, Ali was extremely creative, profoundly artistic, and marvelously melodic across his large body of work. Simply put, he was the greatest artist of his generation bar none. He was in a class of his own. May he rest in power!
OLF-OLA High Command
November 6, 2022
