Teddy Kalanda: Them Mushrooms Band Member Dies After Long Battle With Cancer

• Teddy Kalanda Harrison, founding member of Them Mushroom, passed away at 72 after battling cancer since 2018
• A source intimated to TUKO.co.ke that the legendary musician, known for his iconic hit Jambo Bwana, lost his eyesight before his death
• Kalanda will be remembered for his significant contribution to Kenyan music and his role in popularising Swahili songs globally

Teddy Kalanda Harrison, a founding member of the renowned Them Mushroom band, has passed away at the age of 72.

Kalanda died on Tuesday, September 17, at his rural home in Kaloleni, Kilifi county, after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Who confirmed Teddy Kalanda's death news?

His younger brother, John Katana, who currently leads the band, confirmed the heartbreaking news.

A source who spoke to TUKO.co.ke revealed that Kalanda had been fighting cancer, and by the time of his death, he had tragically lost his eyesight.

"Kalanda was a strong man. He put up a brave fight with cancer and finally lost the battle. He had also lost eyesight before his death," the source shared with TUKO.co.ke.

He will be fondly remembered for his iconic song Jambo Bwana, which became a timeless hit both locally and internationally.

How did Fred Machokaa mourn Teddy Kalanda?

Veteran radio host Fred Obachi Machokaa mourned the death of Kalanda, describing him as his long-term friend and comforting his family.

"I am extremely saddened to learn of the passing on of a music legend and a long-term friend, Teddy Kalanda Harrison. He of Them Mushrooms and the hit song Jambo Bwana ruled the airwaves for decades!!!! To my brothers Billy Saro, John Katana and the entire Harrison family, please accept my sincere condolences for this great loss. May Teddy rest in perfect peace and may the Almighty God comfort you all at this very difficult moment," he wrote.

Them Mushroom band at 50th anniversary

As reported earlier, the Them Mushroom band celebrated 50 years of musical excellence together in December 2022 at Carnivore.

Ezekiel Mutua poured his heart out, showering praises on the evergreen band.

Mutua took to his Twitter, paying glowing tribute to the celebrated band that has been belting hits that have transcended generations.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.