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CONDOLENCE messages for the late Blacks Unlimited percussionist, Lancelot Mapfumo, who died yesterday in the United States, have been flooding social media.
Lancelot, the younger brother of US-based Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo, is believed to have succumbed to bone cancer.
He was 69.
Multiple sources, who include former workmates, relatives and fellow musicians, confirmed the death of the revered percussionist.
Leading the tributes was academic and former Black Unlimited publicist, Blessing Vava, who hailed Lancelot for his loyalty to Mukanya.
“One of the longest-serving members of Thomas Mapfumo’s Blacks Unlimited Band, percussionist Lancelot Mapfumo, has passed on. Zvarwadzwa,” he posted on his social media handle.
Former Minister and fellow musician, Fortune Chasi, who is closer to Mukanya’s family, added:
“Very sad to learn of Mukoma Lancelot’s passing on.
“He played drums (besides) his brother Thomas Mapfumo all his life. Arguably the best!”
US-based reggae musician and lecturer, King Isaac also shared his grief on social media.
“We learned with great sadness and sorrow of the passing of Chimurenga music percussionist mukoma Lancelot Mapfumo.
“We mourn with our legend, Dr. Thomas Mapfumo & the entire Mapfumo family. May his soul Rest In Peace.
“His family, friends and fans be comforted by God’s love and mercy.”
Blogger and music analyst, Sungura Central, shared a video of Lancelot playing drums with a caption which reads:
“RIP Lancelot Mapfumo. His ngoma was a big part of the sound produced by Thomas Mapfumo and the Blacks Unlimited over the years. He was aged 69. Watch him in some of the Blacks Unlimited’s live performances here.”’
Another blogger, Ear Ground, hailed Lancelot for his loyalty to his brother’s cause.
“Deepest condolences on the death of Thomas Mapfumo’s back-up singer/ percussionist and his brother Lancelot Mapfumo.
“Lancelot was one of two of Mapfumo‘s brothers, who played with the Blacks Unlimited, for the longest of time. More details to follow. Our deepest condolences. MHRIP.”
Academic, songwriter and researcher, Charlton Tsodzo, was also shocked by the death of Lancelot.
“Ah shame, nematambudziko zve aya mhuri yaaMukanya nevatsigiri nemadzisahwira,” reads his post.
Arts critic and events management guru, Mitchell Gumbo, was equally devastated following the death of Lancelot.
“Waking up to the painful news that long serving Blacks Unlimited percussionist and brother to Thomas Mapfumo, Lancelot Mapfumo, has passed the surly bonds of the Earth to touch the face of God… RIP. You made Chimurenga music to be the fire it is!”
Lancelot is of the country’s revered percussionists.
He is in the same league with John “Chibhodhoro” Muyambo, the late Adam Chisvo, Jethro Shasva, among others.
His burial arrangements are still sketchy although his body is likely to be repatriated home to Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter