It has been a tough start to the new year for Chimurenga music legend Thomas Mapfumo, who not only has had to deal with the d3ath of his only surviving sister but the devastating passing of his lead guitarist’s son.
In a belated new year message to Chimurenga music fans, Mapfumo said the beginning of 2024 had been tough for him personally, as he had to come to terms with the death of his sister, a woman regarded as the “glue” in their family.
“I hope your year has been going well so far,” he wrote on Instagram.
“Unfortunately, mine did not start well as I lost my sister in January. She was the only sister I had left and the glue to our family. I was very saddened and devastated by her sudden passing.”
Mapfumo said his sister had insisted on seeing him in December, as if she knew that she did not have long left on earth.
“I was very fortunate to see her in December in Zambia. She insisted on coming as if she knew it would be the last time we saw each other. I am grateful to have gotten the chance to see her,” he said.
Mapfumo said the Chimurenga music family had been dealt a double blow when his lead guitarist also lost his son.
Despite all this, Mapfumo said the band was looking forward to thrilling fans on stage again in 2024.
“Apart from my loss, we also suffered another loss in January, with our lead guitarist, Gilbert (Zvamaida), losing his one and only son, James. This was a hard loss and has been a difficult time for him.
“Losing a child is something no parent should have to go through; let alone losing your only child. Gilbert is hanging in there and is surrounded by love during this tough time.
“Although it has been difficult, we are pushing through and look forward to the rest of the year and serving our fans with the very best,” Mapfumo said.
Source Nehanda Radio
