Asnakech Worku (1935–2011) was a pioneering Ethiopian singer, musician, and actress celebrated as one of the first female artists to play the krar, a traditional Ethiopian lyre. Renowned for her expressive voice and commanding stage presence, she became a cultural icon in mid-20th-century Addis Ababa’s vibrant music scene. Blending traditional Ethiopian melodies with emotional storytelling, Asnakech’s work helped shape modern Ethiopian music and inspire generations of artists. Her legacy endures as a symbol of artistic courage and innovation in Ethiopian performing arts.