Ted Kalanda, the founder of the legendary Kenyan musical band Them Mushrooms, has died aged 72.
Kalanda’s younger brother John Katana, confirmed his death and said that he succumbed at his rural home in Kaloleni, Kilifi County after a long battle with cancer.
Kalanda has been battling with cancer since 2018 and had already lost his eyesight at the time of death.
“It has been a long painful journey for our brother, he was a huge inspiration to us, the residents of the coastal region and kenyans generally,” Katana stated.
Kalanda dominated Kenya’s airwaves with legendary hits, including Jambo Bwana, which gained recognition both locally and nternationally.
With a knack for playing the saxophone and stellar penmanship, Kalanda founded the band in 1969 under the name Avenida Success and later renamed it Them Mushrooms in 1972.
The 6-man famous group adopted a distinct blend of Rhumba, Taarab and Sega/Benga folk music, composing hits songs Embe Dodo, Wazee wakatike, Bango and Itawezekanaje among others.
The band briefly changed to Uyoga Band in 2002 before returning to its original name. Their rich discography features beloved tracks like “Unkula Huu,” “Wazee Wakatike,” “Nyambura,” “Ndogo Ndogo,” and “Hapo Kale.”
The band has covered popular songs and played at various venues especially along Kenya’s coast.
Kalanda led the team which included Billy Sarro, George Zirro, John Katana, Pius Plato Chitianda “Jibaba” and Pritt Nyale.
The band has remained active to date under the leadership of Kalanda’s younger brother Katana.
Kalanda’s legacy lives on through his family, especially his eldest son, Henry Harrison, a Sweden-based musician who is also married to a musician, Lioness Afreeka.
By Bridget Mulinge
Comment here