Macheso backing vocalist Barnabas dies

The Zimbabwean music industry and Alick Macheso's Orchestra Mberikwazvo band have been plunged into mourning following the death of backing vocalist and drummer Barnabas "Barna" Mandipota, who died on Sunday after a short illness. He was 35.

Mandipota, who had reportedly complained of a toothache before his condition worsened, leaves behind four children and a pregnant wife.

Orchestra Mberikwazvo spokesperson Tichaona Makahamadze said the band was devastated by the sudden loss, noting that Mandipota had last attended rehearsals on Thursday before being excused to seek medical attention.

"We did not expect this at all. He told us he was responding well to treatment, and we believed he would recover," he said, adding that the musician had been due to rejoin the group for upcoming performances.

He described Mandipota as a disciplined and talented performer who contributed significantly to the band as a drummer, dancer and backing vocalist.

Family spokesperson and elder brother Fastmove Mandipota said burial arrangements were underway, with the family hoping to lay him to rest in Bikita. He said they were still awaiting post-mortem results before finalising funeral proceedings, with burial tentatively set for Wednesday.

Tributes have continued to pour in from across the music industry. The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) expressed condolences, describing Mandipota as a gifted young musician whose death was a major loss to the arts sector.

Somandla "Mafia" Ndebele, who first discovered Mandipota during his early years in Kadoma, also paid tribute, recalling his talent and versatility as a performer who later worked with several major acts, including Alick Macheso.

Mandipota's death has left the music fraternity reflecting on his contribution and promising career, with colleagues and fans remembering him as a hardworking and energetic stage performer.