Blacks to commemorate Matafale, Kuyimba 9 2012
Popular Reggae outfit, the Black Missionaries will on November 27 stage yet another open-air performance at Chileka Police Ground in Blantyre in commemoration of the fallen Reggae maestro Evison Matafale.
Matafale died when he was 31 years old in 2001 in Blantyre while at the peak of his music career. He was buried at his home in Chileka. He is survived by a daughter.
He was the founder and leader of the Black Missionaries. Matafale rose to fame and became one of Malawi’s favourite musicians by 2000 through the release of his debut album, Kuyimba 1, in 1999. Matafale of the Watsetselekafame was also known as ‘the Prophet’. He was seen as an elder amongst Malawian Rastas.
According to Ras Ray Harawa, manager for Black Missionaries, Matafale will be honoured with music from the Black Missionaries. It is also expected that the Blacks will be joined by other bands on that occasion.
Harawa told Nyasa Times in an interview on Friday the fallen Reggae hero contributed immensely to the development and growth of the music industry in Malawi and this is why the Black Missionaries stage the open-air gigs in November every year to honour him, adding these open-air gigs are always free of charge.
“Matafale was a real leader and made the Blacks what they are today. The Blacks started small in the year 2000 but they are now a household name,” Ras Ray enthused.
Matafale initially used to perform with the Wailing Souls. Wailing Souls disbanded soon after his death and the Black Missionaries took over. They now have eight albums to their credit; all entitled called ‘Kuyimba’ (singing). He disclosed the Blacks will be releasing ‘Kuyimba 9’ early next year, 2012.
Ras Ray said the Blacks are grateful for the continued support that they receive as evidenced huge crowds at their live performance across the country.
Matafale used to blend his music with a more serious political message with their Rasta philosophy and messages of peace, love and unity in Malawi.
On Independence Day, July 6, 2010, President Bingu wa Mutharika awarded Matafale the Order of National Achiever Award, and a gift of money to his family. His uncle, Charles Gunsaru, expressed the family’s gratitude and said the bereaved family regarded it as an honour.
