RIP: ‘Firirinda’ hitmaker Dick Munyonyi is dead

 

Popular Mugiithi artist Dick Munyonyi  is dead.

Dick Munyonyi breathed his last on Saturday, January 6, after a prolonged battle with illness.

The news of his demise was initially shared by philanthropist Karangu Wa Muraya on Facebook, leaving fans devastated.

Dick Munyonyi rose to prominence in 2021 when his song ‘Firirinda’ became a viral sensation.

Philanthropist Karangu Wa Muraya took to social media to share the heartbreaking news.

Just hours before Munyonyi’s passing, Karangu had appealed to fans for financial assistance, urging them to contribute to transfer the ailing artist to a facility with an intensive care unit (ICU).

In a Facebook post, Karangu wrote:

“Morning friends, our friend Dick Munyonyi, who is currently admitted at Gatundu Hospital, is in critical condition. Doctors have advised them to transfer him to a facility with an ICU. They need at least 100k for the deposit, and the family has told me they don’t have. I have sent my 10k, and I know we can save the life of this man. Please send whatever you have.”

Despite the collective efforts and contributions, Munyonyi’s condition worsened, and he succumbed to his illness.

An emotional Karangu later updated his Facebook followers, expressing gratitude to Gatundu Hospital and KU Referral Hospital for their efforts.

He also encouraged Kenyans not to tire of doing good, emphasizing the unpredictability of life.

Dick Munyonyi’s musical journey began in 1971, and he reached a pinnacle in 1989 when he had the honor of performing at retired President Uhuru Kenyatta’s wedding.

Unfortunately, his career took a downturn after the release of ‘Firirinda’ due to tuberculosis.

In a past interview, Munyonyi explained, “As time went by, I could not sing because my voice became hoarse, and I could not sing.”

Despite his health challenges, he continued to contribute to the music scene by playing the guitar during his son’s performances.

The resurgence of Munyonyi’s fame came in 2021 when ‘Firirinda’ went viral on TikTok, 35 years after its initial release.

In January 2023, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with stage one prostate cancer but remained optimistic about returning to the stage and entertaining his fans.

May his soul rest in peace!

By Elizabeth Ngigi