Painter & Drummer

Ruphael Woldemariam

Ruphael's passion for drumming began at a young age. Around twelve, he crafted his own drums using tin roof material (korkoro) and followed pictures for guidance.
He practiced daily after school and, by the age of fourteen, joined the Dallol Band. Under the leadership of Menilik Wossenachew, the band performed at the Stereo Club and later at the Etege Hotel.
In 1978, Ruphael became a member of the Wabe Shebele Band, where he played alongside notable artists such as Aster Aweke, Alemayehu Eshete, Wubeshet Fisseha, and Petros Mekuria. At just fourteen, he also toured Ethiopia with Ayalew Mesfin.
After relocating to the USA in 1980, he continued playing with Dallol. By 1987, the band was touring with Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers.
Ruphael played drums on two Grammy-winning albums, *Conscious Party* and *One Bright Day*, earning a gold record plaque for the first album. Later, Ruphael co-founded the GIZZAE BAND in Chicago with Dereje Makonnen and Asrat Aemro-Sellassie.
In 2006, he joined TEDDY AFRO and ABOGIDA BAND, touring globally and continuing his work with them to this day.
In addition to his musical achievements, Ruphael is also a painter.