Popular Kikuyu vocalist Dick Munyonyi has passed away. Renowned musician known for the famous hit 'Firirinda' passed away at Gatundu level 5 hospital while undergoing treatment.
The singer, who developed tuberculosis soon after "Firirinda" was released in 1986, has struggled with ongoing health problems over time.
In 1989, Munyonyi also sang at the wedding of Uhuru Kenyatta, the former president.
In 2021, Dick Munyonyi gained notoriety when his song "Firirinda" went viral on social media thanks to a post by local radio host Jeff Kuria. The song immediately gained popularity.
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Nearly 35 years after its release, the traditional song Firirinda, which conveys the love and happiness of greeting guests, became popular in Kenya for several months, particularly on Twitter.
Politicians were among those dancing to the song; on February 23, Murang'a MCAs did so in celebration of the passing of the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) bill. It also started to be played frequently at weddings and dowry distribution ceremonies.
Other hits like Msongamano, Mombasa, Ngurunga, Loan, Kimumbo, and others are well-known.
Dick Munyonyi's music will live on in our hearts and minds, and we will never forget his extraordinary talent.
May his soul rest in peace and my condolences to his family.
