President Uhuru Kenyatta has eulogized fallen Benga musician John De Mathew as a brilliant artist and an icon of in the music industry who used his music in promoting the African heritage.
De Mathew, whose real name is John Ngángá was involved in a road accident near Blue Post in Thika on Sunday evening. He was pronounced dead at the Thika Nursing Home.
Through a message sent by statehouse, Uhuru condoled friends and family of the deceased icon.
“As a nation, we were privileged to have had such a brilliant artist who played a big role in promoting our African cultural heritage through his music. Indeed, we have lost an icon in the music industry.”
Deputy President William Ruto described De Mathew as an artistic, sociable and an eloquent performer who used his talent to mentor many aspiring musicians and campaigned for a platform to empower them.
Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua referred to De Mathew as an icon whose music has transcended generations and inspired musicians in Central Kenya and beyond.
“So sad to learn about the death of John De’Mathew. An icon who’s music has transcended generations and inspired musicians in Central Kenya and beyond. He will be surely missed. My condolences to his family, the music fraternity and all his fans. May his soul rest in peace,” said governor Mutua in a Facebook post
Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria said he received the news about the artiste’s death with shock, saying he has been referring him to as a modern Kikuyu prophet.
“I have received with utter shock and deep sorrow the passing on of my friend, my brother and my comrade John De Mathew. John was not an artist. I have always referred to him as a modern Kikuyu prophet- Munabii- alongside the late Joseph Kamaru and Muigai wa Njoroge,” read Kuria’s facebook post.
Starehe MP Charles Kanyi alias Jaguar celebrated him as a legend and a mentor who saw him through the music industry at his tender age.
“Death has not only robbed us a great musician but also a legend.John De’Matthew was my mentor when I joined the music industry at my tender age despite us doing different genres of music. His music and performances displayed a great array of diversity. As a member of the music fraternity we are at a great loss.My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Shine on your way De’Matthew and may your soul Rest In Peace till we meet again,” read Jaguar’s Facebook post.