Malawi is, yet again, mourning, this time the loss of one of its most celebrated musical talents, Lucius Banda. He succumbed to kidney failure on June 30, 2024 at the age of 54. Fondly known as “Soldier Lucius Banda” by his fans, the legendary musician was renowned for using his music to give voice to the struggles and aspirations of the common Malawian.
Lucius Banda’s musical journey began at a young age, joining his brother Paul Banda’s Alleluya Band in 1985 when he was just 13 years old. He soon broke away to forge a solo career, releasing his debut album “Son of a Poor Man” in 1993. The project, recorded at Shandel Music Studio with the assistance of Argentine producer George Arigone, showcased Banda’s raw talent and ability to craft songs that resonated deeply with the masses.
In pursuit of honing his craft, Banda attended a music school in South Africa in the same year 1993, an experience that culminated in the release of his hit single “Get Up Stand Up.” This propelled him to collaborate with prominent South African gospel artists like Nomhlanlha Nkhize and Debora Freser.
Banda’s musical prowess continued to flourish, and in 1997 he founded his own band, Zembani, following the release of his fourth album “Take Over.” Over the course of his illustrious career, he went on to release 18 albums, including the politically-charged “15-15- My Song” in 2010, which was banned by the state broadcaster under President Bingu a Mutharika’s orders due to its confrontational lyrical content.
Throughout his musical journey, Banda remained steadfast in his commitment to using his art as a tool for social and political change. He never shied away from composing songs that challenged the powers that be, earning him the admiration of the downtrodden and the ire of the oppressors.
Frustrated by the lack of progress despite his musical rebukes, Banda decided to enter the political arena, contesting and winning a parliamentary seat on the United Democratic Front (UDF) ticket.
His fight against state oppression prior to joining mainstream politics, however, met with a backlash from the government, leading to his arrest and imprisonment on dubious charges during the Bingu wa Mutharika administration.
It was not until the Lazarus Chakwera presidency that Banda’s contributions were truly recognized and honored. Chakwera appointed Banda as his aide on Youth and Arts, a position he held until his unfortunate passing.
In a moving tribute, President Chakwera has acknowledged Banda’s legacy as a “champion of the oppressed and a beacon of hope” whose music and political activism helped shape the nation and gave voice to the voiceless.
Malawians will gather today in Balaka to bid farewell to their beloved “Soldier Lucius Banda,” whose music and unwavering commitment to social justice will forever be etched in the country’s collective memory.
