Social media tributes for Mafunyeta
A cloud of darkness engulfed the entertainment industry yesterday following the sudden death of Patrick Magalasi populary known by his stage name Mafunyeta from an asthma attack.
Mafunyeta’s passing was confirmed by a post on his Facebook fan page. “This is official. Mafunyeta is really dead!!Asthma has taken him, REST IN PEACE. This account will be deactivated after two hours,” read the post.
The body of the fallen Ndimakondwa musician will be laid to rest in Mwanza today.
Fans, renowned people in the entertainment industry as well as high ranking political figures paid tribute to the fallen dancehall star.
Besides paying tribute to Mafunyeta at the commemoration of the International Youth Day in Ntcheu, President Joyce Banda also expressed shock and sorrow on her Facebook page.
The President described the singer as a truly talented young man sharing his music of love and peace. She led the gathering in observing a minute of silence for the fallen star.
Percy Manyozo, producer at Transormers Music, expressed deep loss as he said the last time he spoke to the deceased star, they were contemplating on recording a collabo with Maskal.
“Eish! I am shocked may his soul rest in peace. The last time we spoke he was telling me that he wants to do a song with Maskal” said Manyozo.
Chimwemwe Mhango, president of Music Association of Malawi, said the demise of the artist is a blow to the music fraternity.
“Mafunyeta had a very rare talent and his style was very unique. He was one of the artists who had the potential of putting Malawi on the map,” said the reverend who was at the time of the telephone interview attending the funeral.
Mafunyeta headed Mabilinganya Empire which he founded shortly after the success of his first albumNdimakonda.
According to Innocent “Fireman” Kubwalo ,close friend to the fallen youngster, the rhymester adopted the name “Mafunyeta” from boiled potatoes which were being sold at Mzuzu Government Secondary School.
He collaborated with a number of artists such as Sally Nyundo, Piksy, Blak Jak and numerous other artists.
The following are other condolence messages monitored from social media:
“Lilongwe just lost one of its favourite sons. Just can’t believe that was the last time we talked dada. We both agreed time would reveal your importance to those who dishonour your name. Time has tonight made you King! Mafunyeta is RULING! Fly home safe dada. R.I.P!”says Mandela Mwanza.
“RIP Mafunyeta….true talent gone too soon,” wrote Tapps Bandawe.
Musician Fuggie Kasipa had the following to say. “Deep shock, why jazzman, RIP my brother Mafunyeta.”
