Scottish Inner Circle Mourns Bhundu Boys Founder Rise Kagona

In a poignant ceremony held in Scotland, friends, family, and fans gathered to pay their respects to Rise Kagona, the founder of the legendary Zimbabwean musical group, the Bhundu Boys, who passed away in mid-September. His funeral service reflected the deep emotional ties and the impact he had on the lives of those around him, culminating in a burial set to take place in his homeland of Zimbabwe.

Kagona’s family expressed their heartbreak in a statement delivered by his son, Clever, who conveyed the shock felt by the family. “We always thought we would see our dad again,” he shared. “Our dad was a very loving man to us and to the people around him.” Clever’s words echoed the sentiments of many who knew Rise, highlighting the values of love, kindness, and responsibility that he instilled in his children. He also expressed gratitude to those who supported the family during this difficult time, especially Doug Veitch and Andy Cook, who helped facilitate a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses.

Among the mourners was Joyce, a close friend of Kagona’s, who emphasized the void his absence leaves, particularly for his family in Zimbabwe. “Being a Malawian, Rise was a part of me,” she reflected, reminiscing about the joy he brought to many through his music. Patrick, speaking on behalf of the Zimbabwean community, noted the widespread mourning across nations where Kagona had left his musical mark. He recalled presenting Kagona with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022, a testament to the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his career.

Kagona’s death is not just a loss to his immediate family and friends; it signifies the end of an era for the Bhundu Boys. The only surviving founding member, drummer Kenny Chitsvatsva, made the journey from London to honor his friend. Alongside him were other members, including Washington Kavhai and Kudaushe Henry Matimba, who had played significant roles in the band’s legacy.

The Bhundu Boys, known for their unique fusion of traditional Shona rhythms and contemporary music styles, enjoyed immense popularity during their peak. Although the band eventually disbanded, Kagona’s passion for music remained unbroken. He later formed a more intimate live band with Veitch and Cook, where he continued to mentor and inspire younger musicians.

Andy Cook, who became close to Kagona after joining the band, shared how deeply the loss affected him. He fondly remembered their time together, emphasizing Kagona’s dedication to perfecting his craft. “He composed all of his songs, the guitar lines, drum patterns… He was always happier to perform and teach us the new songs,” Cook recounted.

Kagona was not only a musician; he was a wise and observant figure, drawing inspiration from human nature and societal events, which often influenced his lyrics. His songs, including “Munhu Munhu” (A Person is a Person), reflect his belief in the unifying power of music, transcending boundaries of color and race.

Raqel, Cook’s wife, described Kagona as an inspiration who brought joy into their lives. His role extended beyond music; he was a friend and a mentor, teaching their children valuable life lessons and even cooking traditional meals like sadza.

Kagona’s contributions to music were profound, helping to shape the Bhundu Boys’ distinct sound characterized by lively rhythms and harmonies. His compositions often carried deep political undertones, particularly during Zimbabwe’s tumultuous times under Robert Mugabe’s regime. Despite the challenges, Kagona’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched through his music and teachings.

As friends and fans continue to celebrate Rise Kagona’s life, his influence remains palpable. The stories shared during his funeral serve as a reminder of the lasting impact he had on the music scene and the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. His journey will be celebrated as a testament to the power of music to connect people and uplift communities, ensuring that his memory will endure long after his final performance.