Mafunyeta was only 25 when he died. But for his young life, he had already made a mark on the local music scene. Born Patrick Magalasi, Mafunyeta as he was popularly known, made a name as a dancehall artist with his Mabilinganya Empire.
His craft as a musician has always been unique.
Some of his popular songs include Ndimakondwa, Ndimakukonda, Kangobwera, Andikawe and many others.
Mafunyeta had a signature dance move which endeared him to dancehall music fans. He also produced unique music videos which left imprints in the hearts of many.
In his songs, Mafunyeta also made sure to mention the fact that he was from the ghetto and was proud of where he came from. It was clear from his music that his upbringing was his major inspiration.
Next month, it will be 10 years since his death on August 11 2013 and Mabilinganya Empire has decided to hold a memorial in celebration of Mafunyeta’s life.
According to the organisers, local fans are still grappling with Mafunyeta’s loss and the memorial show will serve as a healing event for those whose lives were impacted by his artistry.
Musical giants are set to take the stage on August 13 2023 at National Memorial Tower Road in Lilongwe.
The urban music show will start in the morning from 10am with up-and- coming artists. In the afternoon, the event will reach its peak with big name who will take turns to perform.
The memorial show project chairperson Yanja Chigamba said the show will have various aspects such as music and mental healyh talk.
He said: “We are calling it a project, not just a show, with a theme ‘It’s okay to talk, suicide is not a solution’. From statistics, we have seen that the youth are in the forefront committing suicide.
“It is going to be streamed live. Then we are going to have a feedback line on how this show has helped people on the issue of mental health.”
The show will be attended by Lilongwe City deputy mayor Esther Sagawa who will give a career talk, while officials from Saint John of God will give a talk on mental health. They will be accompanied by officials from Ministry of Health.
“We will also have a wide selection of musicians such as Gwamba, Malinga, Zeze Kingston, Wikise and Phyzix, among others who will entertain people,” said Chigamba.
Phyzix said the event is important as it will reintroduce Mafunyeta to people who never saw him perform live. He said the event will also set a precedent of honouring talented people.
He said he is excited to perform and will bring an energetic performance and has encouraged people to support the project.
“I encourage people in Lilongwe and neighbouring areas to come and be a part of this event. Mafunyeta was one of our own and we should come together to remember him. People can contribute in cash or kind. They should also help publicise this event and make it as big as it can be,” said Phyzix.
Reflecting on Mafunyeta’s talent, one of his fans, Lyson Mitengo, said Mafunyeta’s talent cannot be emphasized as he remains unique and his talent unmatched.
“It has been 10 years, but the music landscape has had no one who comes close to his unique talent. Mafunyeta curved his own style and no one has been able to replicate him,” he said.
