The Zimbabwean music fraternity is mourning the loss of Rise Kagona, founder member and leader of the legendary Bhundu Boys, who passed away in Scotland after a long battle with illness. He was 62.
Kagona’s demise has sent shockwaves through the music industry, with fans, fellow musicians, and music enthusiasts describing his passing as a tremendous loss to the arts community.
Marshal Shonhai, a popular social media commentator, expressed his sadness on social media, “Today is a sad day for Zimbabwean music. Rise Kagona, the visionary leader and founder of the iconic Bhundu Boys, has left us. His legacy will be deeply missed.”
Fellow musician, researcher, and painter Tafadzwa Gora echoed Shonhai’s sentiments, “The news of Rise Kagona’s passing is devastating. As a pioneer of Zimbabwean music, he played a pivotal role in putting our country on the global music map. His contribution to the industry will never be forgotten.”
Music researcher, columnist, and academic Professor Fred Zindi, who had a close relationship with the Bhundu Boys, remembered Kagona fondly. “I last spoke to Rise in 2018 when he was unwell. He was a kind and humble soul who loved his craft. I had the pleasure of hosting the Bhundu Boys at my London home in the late 80s during their UK tour.”
Born on May 17, 1962, in Malawi, Kagona co-founded the Bhundu Boys, initially known as Wild Dragons and later King Crops Hippies. The band’s unique blend of jiti, chimurenga, and Afro-pop styles captivated audiences globally.
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With hits like “Simbimbino,” “Babamunini Francis,” “Hatisi Tose,” “Kuroja Chete,” and “Jit Jive,” the Bhundu Boys became one of Zimbabwe’s most successful exports. In 1987, they shared the stage with Madonna at Wembley Arena in the United Kingdom.
Renowned English radio presenter and journalist John Peel praised the Bhundu Boys, saying their music was “the most naturally flowing he had ever heard in his life.” Andy Kershaw, a close friend of the band, was the best man at Biggie Tembo’s wedding in Zimbabwe.
However, the band’s success was marred by internal conflicts, leading to the departure of Biggie Tembo. Kagona acknowledged that Tembo’s exit was due to personal differences and erratic behavior.
Kagona’s passing leaves drummer Kenny Chitsvatsva as the sole surviving co-founder of the Bhundu Boys. Five other original members – Biggie Tembo, Washington Kavhayi, Shepherd Munyama, David Mankaba, and Shakie Kangwena – have also passed away.
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Tributes continue to pour in, music lovers and industry stakeholders are celebrating Kagona’s remarkable legacy. He will be remembered for his groundbreaking contributions to Zim music, paving the way for future generations of musicians.
The details of Kagona’s burial arrangements are still pending. His family, friends, and fans will miss him dearly, but his music and legacy will continue to inspire and uplift people around the world.
Rise Kagona’s passing marks the end of an era in Zimbabwean music. His impact on the industry will be felt for generations to come, and his memory will live on through the timeless music of the Bhundu Boys.
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