Tributes pour in for legend
FEARLESS: SANG SONGS THAT WERE BANNED ON RADIO
‘He breathed consciousness, agitated thoughts of freedom through his music.’
Ray Phiri, the fallen lead vocalist of the legendary Stimela band, was yesterday described as a strong person who sang with passion. Phiri succumbed to lung cancer at a hospital in Mpumalanga yesterday.
Speaking to The Citizen, South African poet and musician Mzwakhe Mbuli described Phiri as a fearless and great entertainer.
“I remember back in the day, there were songs he sang that were banned on radio but he didn’t care. He just continued performing them.
“The last time I spoke to him was early this year and he was wheelchair-bound but he had that never-say-die attitude. I must say the country has really lost a legend in Ray ... a soldier who died with his boots on,” Mbuli said.
Other musicians and political parties also reacted with shock to the sad news.
Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse tweeted: “I have no words on the loss of my dear friend Ray Phiri. I am too devastated and I am at a loss for words.”
The ANC extended its heartfelt condolences to the Phiri family, describing him as a voice for the voiceless and “legend of our time”.
“An immensely gifted composer, vocalist and guitarist, he breathed consciousness and agitated thoughts of freedom through his music,” ANC spokesperson Zizi Kodwa said in a statement.
Kodwa said that through Whispers in the Deep, one of the best songs he recorded with Stimela, Phiri taught people to forever remain inspired and never tolerate hate. “The indelible contribution Phiri has made to the tapestry that is South African arts and culture will never be forgotten.
“May his life’s work forever remain an inspiration to generations of artists who would emulate his example of using the arts to effect change and inspire hope among his people.”
The PAC said Phiri’s music and that of his peers had an influence on liberating the people.
“He is a true role model,” said the PAC. “We have never seen him in the media for the wrong reasons and that clearly displays that he was a down-to-earth individual. He left a great legacy for generations to come.
“His music will always echo in our eardrums.”
The EFF said the music of Phiri and Stimela proved true humanity lived with no borders.
President Jacob Zuma described Phiri as a musical giant.
“This is indeed a huge loss for South Africa,” he said. –