This archive report was first published on 19 August 2019.
On August 18, 2019, the music world lost a legend when John DeMathew, a popular Kikuyu musician, died in a car crash. DeMathew, whose real name was John Ng'ang'a, was known for his mastery of Kikuyu proverbs and sayings, earning him the title of the Agikuyu prophet and seer.
DeMathew's music career spanned over three decades, during which he composed more than 50 albums and released numerous hit songs. His first song, 'Jenifer Reke Tuaranie', was released in December 1986, followed by his first hit 'My Dear Nduku' in 1987.
However, DeMathew's music was not without controversy. His songs with political undertones, such as 'Wituite Hiti', which was released ahead of the 2013 election, landed him in trouble with State agencies for allegedly fuelling ethnic tension. He was charged in court over the song for hate speech but was acquitted the following year.
DeMathew defended himself, saying the translations were taken out of context and had missed the message in the song. His love life was also not devoid of controversy, with claims that he was in a relationship with a Murang'a politician, which he refuted.
Despite the controversy, DeMathew's music remained popular, and he was praised by many, including President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who sent condolence messages to his family.
