Thomas Chibade: A True Ghetto King Remembered
Thomas Chibade: A True Ghetto King Remembered
Thomas Chibade, born on February 13, 1986, passed away on October 18, 2023, and was laid to rest on October 21, 2023, at the Area 18 cemetery in Lilongwe. He is survived by his wife and four children.
Lilongwe, Malawi— The passing of Malawian music star Thomas Chibade has ignited a debate about who truly deserves the title "King of the Ghetto" , writes Howard Mlozi.
As many musicians claim this title, Chibade's death and the extraordinary outpouring of public support at his funeral in Lilongwe demonstrate that he held a unique connection with the people.
Chibade's passing was met with an overwhelming response from Malawians, particularly those from the villages and ghetto areas.
Residents of Mgona, Senti, area 25, and area 18 gathered in large numbers in Ngomani village to participate in the vigil for the late youthful music icon.
The funeral program initially met controversy as Chibade's relatives sought to transport his body to Zomba for burial, but the people of Lilongwe, particularly those from Ngomani village, protested and demanded that Chibade be buried in Lilongwe.
This public outcry led to the musician's final resting place being designated as the Area 18 cemetery in Lilongwe.
Sources close to the late artist revealed that Chibade's family was criticised for allegedly neglecting him during his illnesses and life, which drove him to spend more time with the people from Ngomani village, who subsequently became an integral part of his life.
Chief Ngomani explained the decision to celebrate Chibade's funeral in Lilongwe, saying, "People from this area had a strong bond with the late Chibade and believed it was fitting to celebrate his life right here."
Chibade's funeral was characterised by lively celebrations and dramatic events, as people chanted songs in his praise and cheered for popular figures who attended, such as comedian-cum-politician Bon Kalindo and a musician known as Chiberekero in the ghetto.
Chiberekero was accompanied by a crowd of ghetto kids who escorted him from the vigil home to the nearby bus stage.
Arts commentators and musicians recognised Chibade's wide-reaching influence across diverse audiences, both local and urban. His music, particularly the hit "a.e.i.o.u," resonated with listeners due to its reflection on real societal issues, making it a chart-topper in its time.
"His music was beloved by many because it addressed real issues in our society. Chibade shot to stardom around 2005, and his music was in high demand. A day couldn't pass without playing his music on the radio due to listener demand," noted DJ Fraternal of Radio 2 FM.
Gospel musician Anthony Dumba praised Chibade's music for its craftsmanship and philosophy, focusing on issues affecting ordinary people. Chibade's collaboration with producer Ralph Ching'amba of Ralph Records was hailed as exceptional.
However, Chibade's funeral was not without controversy.
The Musicians Union of Malawi (MUM) criticised politicians for showing sympathy to the music fraternity when an artist passes away.
This prompted a response from the Minister of Local Government, Unity, and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda, who emphasized that attending funerals is a cultural norm and should not be viewed as seeking sympathy or fame from the music fraternity.
He encouraged Malawian musicians to join organizations such as the Copyright Society of Malawi (Cosoma) and MUM, highlighting the need for cultural leaders to intensify prayers against the sudden loss of artists in the country.
Thomas Chibade, born on February 13, 1986, passed away on October 18, 2023, and was laid to rest on October 21, 2023, at the Area 18 cemetery in Lilongwe. He is survived by his wife and four children.
As Chibade's body was laid to rest, the lyrics of his song "Freedom Fighter" resonated in the hearts of those who knew him best.
Growing up in poverty, Chibade faced a difficult childhood, and "Freedom Fighter" seemed to foretell and encapsulate his life story.
In the song, he asks that his relatives not cry during his death but instead celebrate his life.
The track begins: "Ndikazangofa achibale musazalire ×2/Ngati mukafuna kulira mulire ndili moyo poti uchifwamba, umasiye nkhondo zosatha..."
Thomas Chibade, the true definition of a ghetto king, will always be remembered for his impactful music and deep connection with the people.