Tilahun Gessesse (1940–2009) was a legendary Ethiopian singer, widely considered one of the most popular artists of the 20th century, and was affectionately nicknamed "The Voice" during the country's "Golden Age" of music in the 1960s. After leaving his hometown as a teenager to pursue his musical dreams, he rose to prominence as a star vocalist with the Imperial Bodyguard Band, blending Ethiopian folk traditions with jazz and pop influences. Throughout his prolific career, Tilahun's captivating tenor voice resonated deeply with the nation, and he was celebrated not only for his music, which became central to Ethiopian culture, but also for his humanitarian efforts, including raising money for famine relief, a legacy that earned him an honorary doctorate and a lifetime achievement award.