The country’s creative industry was in the early hours of Friday dealt a heavy blow following the death of veteran guitarist and composer Batson Kapalamula.
Kapalamula, who was a member of The Roots, a group famed for the hit Bambo a Tereza died at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe.
He was laid to rest on Saturday at Chilinde in Lilongwe.
The death of Kapalamula has shocked several artists.
Reuben Chongwe, who is based in the United States of America, said Kapalamula was one of his favourite guitarists, singers and composers.
“He was my mentor and a very good teacher. I am where I am in music because of him,” Chongwe said.
Kapalamula’s long-time friend and member of The Roots, George Khombe, said Kapalamula will be greatly missed for his immense talent.
“We performed together for many years and I learned a lot of things from him. He was a great guitarist. But all in all he was a great friend. May his soul rest in peace,” Khombe said.
Kapalamula was born on April 15 1957.
In 1976, he joined Salima-based group The Storms, and
made a name with songs such as ‘Galu Wanu Wandibera Chikopa’.
In 1980, he joined New Scene Band, which was based at Club Makokola in Mangochi.
His musical journey took a huge step when he joined The Roots and, in 1982, recorded the album Bambo A Tereza.
The song, which has stood the test of time, has been reworked by several artists in the country because of its rich lyrical content.
Some of the members who made up The Roots included Samson Kamwendo, Hebert Makuluni and Kingstone Msokera.
Kapalamula, who also worked with several young artists at Music Crossroads Malawi in Lilongwe, had stints with Lucius Banda’s Zembani Band, Mlaka Maliro’s Maloto Vibrations and Warriors Band.
Several artists, including former director of culture Bernard Kwilimbe and Musicians Union of Malawi president Reverend Chimwemwe Mhango, attended the burial ceremony.
Leave a Reply