Sombre mood engulfed Goliyo, in the populous township of Ndirande on Sunday, when the body of Gospel artist, George Mkandawire arrived.
There were tears, especially from women, when the hearse arrived at the place where vigil for the departed and talented musician arrived.
Immediately, when the white casket was taken out from the black hearse,faces were down as some could not hold their tears.
Mkandawire, who died in Zambia will be laid to rest on Monday at HHI Cemetery after a funeral ceremony at Robins Park in Blantyre.“`
The late George Mkandawire.
News about Mkandawire’s death flooded social media, with fans and musicians conveying their condolences. His brother, Charles Mkandawire, who is based in South Africa, also confirmed the news.
“We talked on Friday and he didn’t indicate in any way that he was sick,” Mkandawire said. “He was sharing with me updates on his upcoming single projects that he did under Major 1 Records recently.”
Music In Africa spoke to Malawian creatives who shared their sentiments about Mkandawire’s impact on the local music industry.
“It’s sad that we have lost one of our brightest stars, once in-a-generation talent,” UMP Awards CEO Ken Limwame said. “George was a jovial fellow, and idol to many. We will forever keep his memory alive.”
Singer Lily B said: “I grew up listening to the smooth voice of George Mkandawire wafting from my grandparents living room. We looked up to him and we enjoyed his expression, and we offer our deepest condolences to his family who have been hard hit by his death. I am truly sorry.”
Rapper Hayze said he had known Mkandawire since childhood and had the pleasure to talk with him.
“Mkandawire was so humble, and he used to come to a local studio. He was quiet but in the studio he was something else. He inspired me and many other students.”
Another local artist, Tuno, said: “It’s really sad. I grew up listening to his songs. ‘Nkhampenjanga’ is my favourite song up until now. He was a great singer and composer. May his soul rest in peace.”
Born in 1974, Mkandawire is credited for contributing to the growth of Malawi’s gospel music scene. The musician shot to fame in the early 2000s following the release of his album Ulendo. According to local reports, Mkandawire took a break from music and re-emerged on the scene last year after joining Shepherd Bushiri’s label Major 1 Records. Bushiri was set to stand trial in South Africa for alleged fraud and money laundering but recently fled to Malawi with his wife Mary, where they handed themselves over to the police after Interpol issued a notice.
George Mkandawire came into lime light with like
THE NATION MOURNS GEORGE MKANDAWIRE
Nkhampenjanga Sono Namsanga, Yesu Wane
Wakandifwira, Kuombola ine, Watumbikengee, Yesu Wane
🙏🏿
Yesu Thanthwe Langa
Potsamiila Pangaaa
Angafike Mmavuto ndidzaimbabe
Popeza ndidziwa Yeesu ndi Thanthwe langa
Mbuye wanga mukhale nane,
Mmene dzuwa likulowa,
Ndipereka moyo wanga aaaa.
Ngati mmawa sindidzuka
RIP George.
ARTISTS MOURN GEORGE MKANDAWIRE MUSICALLY
The sombre veil that engulfed Robins Park in Blantyre was partly lifted as musicians gave out their best at a memorial concert set in honour of gospel artist George Mkandawire who passed on last week in Zambia.
Headliners included Lucius Banda, Lulu, Skeffa Chimoto, Allan Ngumuya, Ndirande Anglican Voices and Adams Family.
The deceased’s own mother and his son, George Mkandawire III also performed.
However, a surprise package of the day was a performance from the Minister of Industry Roy Kachale Banda who did a rendition of ‘Zapadziko’ with Eric Paliani on the guitar.
“I, George and Eric were playing together in a school band at Phwezi Secondary School and this is like a reminiscence of those days,” he disclosed.
Delivering a message of condolence from President Dr Lazarus Chakwera, Tourism and Culture Minister Michael Usi said Mkandawire’s music touched a lot of people in so many ways.
“The president is mourning together with all of us. He would have loved to be present in person, but he is engaged today,” said Usi.
Concurring with Usi, Presidential Advisor on Arts and Youth disclosed that President Chakwera had condoled the bereaved family with K1 million.
During their eulogies, artists San B, Dan Sibale, Diwa Khwiliro all expressed the need for Malawi to preserve Mkandawire’s music.
Delivering his sermon, Bishop Chimwemwe Mhango said, “Malawians should stop being judgemental on a person’s character. Let’s leave that role with God.”
Born on July 1,1974, Mkandawire is survived by a son.
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