Zuma pays tribute to jazz giant

PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma has extended his heartfelt condolences on the passing of jazz musician Ray Phiri, who died yesterday.

In a statement the Presidency looked at the illustrious career of Raymond Chikapa Enock Phiri, who was a South African jazz, fusion and mbaqanga musician born 70 years ago in present-day Mbombela, Mpumalanga.

Phiri was a founder member of a soul-music group of the 1970s, The Cannibals, who were later joined by the late soul singer Mpharanyana.

When The Cannibals disbanded, Phiri founded Stimela (Steam Train), with whom he conceived gold and platinum-winning albums like Fire, Passion and Ecstasy; Look,

Listen and Decide; as well as the controversial People Don’t Talk So Let’s Talk.

Phiri was honoured with the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver for his sterling contribution to the South African music industry and the successful use of arts as an instrument of social transformation.

“He was a musical giant. This is a huge loss for South Africa and the music industry. We are with his family in thoughts and prayers. May his soul rest in peace,” Zuma said. – ANA