Akuka, 18 years on
The memorial event for fallen music star Saleta ‘Akuka’ Phiri has been poised for the revival of Amulamu Band (AB) Sounds which he founded.
The group has been dormant due to lack of equipment after the ones that Phiri left upon his death on December 30 2004 wore out.
Members of the band, family and friends have organised a memorial show for the Munyaradzi hit-maker this evening at Club 24/7 around Kameza Roundabout in Blantyre.
The organisers said they will use the event to mobilise resources to revive the band and celebrate the life and contribution of Phiri.
Speaking in an interview, AB Sounds leader Takondwa Mombayekha said they made efforts in the past to hire equipment, but it proved financially unsustainable.
“The going has been tough for us. Since 2008, we have been trying, but it has not been easy. We want to appeal to well-wishers to assist us to revive the band. This group is part of Phiri’s legacy and it would be sad to see it die that way,” he said.
Currently, the group has seven members and Mombayekha admitted that without the founder’s leadership things have proved tough. He said it is encouraging that people have come forward to reflect on his legacy.
He said: “We have been listening to his music for 18 years and till now his compositions are relevant. That tells you that he was a special artist. Outside music, he also involved himself in numerous charity works. We just need to do our best to sustain his name.”
One of the show organisers, Elson Soko, said they will also use the platform to share the artistic background of Phiri.
“Maybe some just hear his name and music on the radio and have no idea what kind of person he was. This is their chance to acquaint themselves to one of the pioneers of modern music in Malawi,” he said.
During his peak, ‘Akuka’ was known for his hits such as Imfa Ya Amuna Anga, Munyaradzi, Oraruwa and Tinali Ndi Anzathu. The memorial show will also feature Lucius Banda, Lucky Stars Band, Agorosso, Master Tongole, Thembe Band and Nep Sounds Band.
