This archive report was first published on 19 August 2019.
On August 18th, 2019, John De Mathew, a veteran Kikuyu Benga artiste, tragically passed away in a road accident. His death has sparked a wave of tributes and celebrations from fans and fellow artists, with many people discovering his music and legacy for the first time.
Ali Kiba, a Tanzanian star, has shared his thoughts on this phenomenon, saying it's a positive thing for people to be genuinely moved by the loss of a music titan and to empathize with his loved ones.
However, Ali Kiba also believes that being real and positive is more important than being feared or disliked. In an interview, he said:
"Ni vizuri nife, ni bora nife nikiwa naheshimika kuliko kufa halafu watu wataniongelelea vibaya, wamekushusha dhamani. Ukiwa mkweli kidogo ni kama hawapendi, ama hawawezi kufuatilia, mpaka uadanganye, lakini kiukweli mimi napenda kuwa real, niongee vitu vyangu, nifanya mambo yangu ambayo yako very positive."
Ali Kiba's comments have sparked a range of reactions from fans and fellow artists, with some expressing fascination, happiness, sadness, anger, boredom, and fear.
