Steve KekanaSouth Africa |1958| SesothoSteve Kekana, whose real name is Tebogo Steve Kekana, was a talented South African singer, songwriter, and advocate. Despite losing his sight at five, he pursued a successful career in music. He won the SABC Black Music Award for best male vocalist in 1979 and 1980, gaining international fame with "Raising My Family." Kekana recorded over forty albums and collaborated with notable artists. Beyond music, he held B Juris and LLB degrees and lectured in Labour Law at the University of South Africa. Tragically, he passed away from COVID-19 complications on 1 July 2021. His legacy lives on through his timeless music and contributions to education and advocacy.
Mohammed Malcolm BenGhana |1946| AkanMohammed Malcolm Ben was a Ghanaian drummer, vocalist, producer, and arranger who gained international recognition for his solo album "African Feeling" released in 1983. Prior to this, he had already established himself as a successful producer and arranger in Ghana, having played in several bands such as Messengers Dance Band and T.O. Jazz. In 1970, he formed his own label called Ohianawa and produced his debut album with T.O. Jazz. In 1973, he changed the name of his label to African Feeling Organization. Throughout the late '70s, Ben became famous for his work as a producer and composer with the African Brothers, and City Boys Band, producing hits such as "Agatha," "Owua Aye Me Bi," and "Ankwanobi."
Master Mwana CongoCongo |1946| FrenchIgnace Nkounkou widely known as Master Mwana Congo is an artist, producer, songwriter and guitarist from Congo. This artist is well known by his 2017 album titiled "C'est du tao tao" and is a phenomenal and a good example to growing artists. His vision and mission has never been twarted. Master Mwana is also a very good actor.
Omo Smart IdornigieNigeria |1949| Other NigerianOmo Smart Idornigie was a highlife musician from Edo State, Nigeria. He made an impact during the 70s and 80s with his Happy Moving Star Band. Omo Smart was renowned for his vibrant Etsakor live performances that frequently incorporated social commentary. Among his notable tracks were "Agbonegienhe" and “Alhaji ‘Courage and Hope’ Special.” His music became a powerful medium to celebrate and promote the rich cultural heritage of Edo State. Omo Smart Idornigie's influence continues to endure, securing his position as a timeless music icon. He passed away in 2006.
Gift Case AmuliZimbabwe |1920| ShonaGift Amuli, affectionately nicknamed "Case," is a Zimbabwean music legend whose journey began in the vibrant 80s. His musical roots lie in the Zig Zag Band, where he honed his skills and passion for music. His early experience laid the foundation for his later success with the legendary Zvishavane Sounds. Amuli's talent and charisma shone brightly within Zvishavane Sounds. His signature Sungura sound is a blend of traditional Zimbabwean rhythms with modern influences. Hit songs like "Wamatuka," "Haazeze Vakadzi Vevanhu," and "Vangodza" cemented his place as a contemporary Sungura icon. Beyond music, Amuli's multifaceted nature has led him to explore the world of traditional healing. His music continues to pulsate through the nation's soul, ensuring that the rhythm of Sungura keeps Zimbabwe grooving for generations to come.
Marshall MunhumumweZimbabwe |1960| ShonaMarshall Munhumumwe who was a talented drummer, lead singer and songwriter, had learned his skills from his nephew Thomas Mapfumo. After leaving Mapfumo's band in 1977, Munhumumwe formed the Mighty Four Brothers alongside Lex Phiri Chipaika (rhythm guitar and later keyboards), Edward Ulaya Zulu (lead guitar), and Never Mutare on bass. Sadly, Munhumumwe passed away in 2001 at the age of 49.
Sipho MchunuSouth Africa |1951| ZuluSipho Mchunu best known for his work with the Juluka band, is a South African musician from Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal. His early exposure to music, particularly the guitar, under his father's guidance, led him to Johannesburg in the early 1970s. There, he crossed paths with Johnny Clegg, resulting in the formation of Juluka. Mchunu's contributions to Juluka, including his songwriting, vocals, and guitar skills, helped popularize Zulu musical traditions worldwide, particularly Maskanda and Mbaqanga music. Beyond his work with Juluka, Sipho notably has three solo albums to his credit: Yithi Esavimba, Umhlaba Uzobuya, Selula, showcasing his dedication to preserving Zulu's musical heritage.
Leonard ZhakataZimbabwe |1968| ShonaLeonard "Karikoga" Zhakata is a renowned Zimbabwean musician known for his significant contributions to the country's music scene. Primarily singing and writing in his native Shona language, he showcases his cultural heritage through his music. Zhakata began his musical journey in 1986 with the Marxist Brothers before forming the Maungwe Brothers with his nephew. At the age of 26, he achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the youngest Zimbabwean musician to sell over 100,000 copies of an album with "Maruva Enyika." Despite facing challenges due to perceived political statements, Zhakata courageously voiced his opinions and advocated for freedom in the music industry. His resilience, talent, and commitment have made him a respected and influential figure in Zimbabwean music.
Pepe OpetumCongo, The Democratic Republic of the |1944| LingalaNdombe Opetum, also known as Pepe Ndombe, was a legendary recording artist, composer, and vocalist from DRC. He was a former member of the iconic Congolese band TPOK Jazz, where he served as the lead vocalist. After the death of TPOK Jazz founder François Luambo Makiadi in 1989, Ndombe Opetum continued to play with the band until it split up in 1993. He later became a founding member of the band Bana OK. Ndombe Opetum passed away in May 2012 from cardiac arrest.
