Wed Sep 18 17:26:56 UTC 2024: ## Zimbabwean Jit Music Icon Rise Kagona Passes Away
**EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND** – Rise Kagona, founding member and one of the last surviving members of the legendary Zimbabwean Jit band, Bhundu Boys, has passed away. Kagona, who resided in Edinburgh, Scotland, was still an active musician at the time of his death. This leaves Kenny Chitsvatsva, the band’s drummer, as the sole remaining original member.
The cause of Kagona’s death is currently unknown. Author and event organizer Marshall Shonhai confirmed the news on social media, expressing his sorrow for the loss of the talented musician.
Kagona, born in Malawi in 1962, moved to Zimbabwe at the age of two. He formed the Bhundu Boys at Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, recruiting four of its original members. Their popularity soared in post-independence Zimbabwe, playing in beerhalls and at Club Saratoga in Harare’s Highfield. Their talent was recognized by Steve Roskilly, a recording studio owner in Harare, who helped the band achieve four number one hits within their first three years.
Led by vocalist Biggie Tembo, the Bhundu Boys gained international recognition, exporting their Jit music to the UK. However, the group eventually disbanded as Tembo pursued a solo career.
Kagona’s passing is a significant loss for the Zimbabwean music scene, leaving a void in the legacy of the iconic Bhundu Boys.
First Piper 