Singer Andrew Matrauza death ‘big loss’ to Malawi music industry

Renowned musician Andrew Matrauza famed for song Musadabwe has died after a short critical illness.

One of the musicians, Fugie Kasipa confirmed to Nyasa Times of Matrauza’s death.

Kasipa, who is coordinating the funeral arrangement, said Matrauza died on Thursday morning at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital where he was admitted.

”He was critically ill. The arrangements are that he will be buried in his home district Zomba, but the programme is open to change,” said Kasipa.

Matrauza, who has entertained Malawians with his music the past years before he went to South Africa, was admitted at QECH on Friday in Ward 3B after complaining of stomach pains.

He returned to Malawi from South Africa in July and had been sick since his return.

Matrauza came onto the limelight after releasing songs such as ‘Musadabwe,’ which enjoyed airplay in most of the local radio stations, entertainment centres and a wedding song, describing the Malawian marriage arrangement from the groom’s point of view, continues to be played during wedding and send-off ceremonies in the country.

The musician featured in most of Joseph Tembo’s music videos which enjoyed airplay on MBCTV and he also featured Tembo in some of his music videos.

Tembo said he was “deeply shocked” with the death of Matrauza.

“I’m deeply shocked with the news in fact I can’t believe this , I was with him a day ago and we managed to chat and I was happy that he will be out so soon but hearing he is gone it’s very painful to me.

“I knew Andrew way back , we have worked and grow together we were more like brothers , he was such guy who was creative in doing things , I will surely miss him”, mourned Tembo .

Musicians Union of Malawi (MUM) president Reverend Chimwemwe Mhango has described Matrauza’s death a big loss to the music industry.

“Malawi has been robbed of great music talent. It’s sad loss,” said Mhango.

“Matrauza had a special place in the industry because he  chose to do songs that talk about weddings and that gave him a very unique platform. We will really miss him.”

Mhango also hailed Matrauza’s collaboration with musician and producer Joseph Tembo.

Born on May 30 1978, Matrauza is survived by a wife and two children, Junior and Noel—Additional reporting by Mphatso Nkhoma, Nyasa Times.

• Musadabe Music video:

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