News about singer Mowzey Radio’s death has gripped the entertainment industry in Uganda and beyond with somberness as artistes continue to react with deep shock to the loss.
Several musicians and other entertainers took to social media paying tribute to the Goodlyfe singer who died on Thursday at the age of 33.
Musician and Kyadondo East MP, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu alias Bobi Wine described Radio as having been an inspiration to the young generation but decried government’s failure to present reports on previous deaths of artistes.
“He was an inspiration to the young generation, we lost Dan Kumapeesa, AKA 47 and the culprits were not brought to book. One would expect that for the service we offer this country, we need a little protection from the government”, said Bobi Wine at Case Hospital on Thursday morning.
Eddy Kenzo said that he could not believe waking up to news of death of Radio, describing him as “the greatest star”.
“I don’t even know what to say, but it is sad we lost Radio. It is hard to believe but that is how God has decided. R.I.P Brother. It is the way for all of us. Prayers for you Weseal team, Good life and family. We are going to miss you the greatest star of our generation”.
Bebe Cool described Radio’s demise as “awful”, “painful” and sad to hear.
“I pray that Allah blesses our colleague’s departed soul with eternal peace and give us and his family the strength and support to cope up with the loss as we go through this difficult time,” Bebe Cool said.
“A person that departs from this earth never truly leaves, for they’re still alive in our hearts and minds, through us, they live on. Surely my namesake will not be forgotten”.
Bebe Cool cancelled all his music concerts slated for this weekend in honor of the fallen singer.
Songstress Juliana Kanyomozi was equally shocked about the saddening news. She posted; “You can’t just leave like this Radio. Why?”
“God Gives. God takes away. Death is so saddening. RIP Mowzey Radio,” Sheebah Karungi wrote on her Facebook, sending condolences to the deceased’s exlover, Lilian Mbabazi.
Comedienne Anne Kansiime said Radio had gone too soon. “I will be lying if I say i have the words to explain what am feeling. You have gone too soon Mukwano. Indeed God also likes good things,” she said.
But Radio was not just mourned in Uganda. His death was felt further beyond the borders in Kenya, Tanzanani, Rwanda and beyond where his music was popular.
Kenya’s pop artiste Nameless posted; “Rest well Radio. That golden voice will stay with us forever and thank you for the great tunes. Together with family and friends in prayers during this difficult time”.
Afro pop group, Sauti Sol said Radio’s demise was a sad day for African music.
Mowzey Radio passed on on Thursday morning at case hospital in Kampala where he has been undergoing treatment since January 23, following and a brawl at night in a bar in Entebbe.
The deceased alongside Weasel who were part of the Goodlyfe group which rose to fame after their ‘Nakudata’ duet and have since recorded hit songs like Neera, Ntunga, Bread and butter, Talk and Talk, Nyambura among others. In 2013, Radio and Weasel were nominated in the prestigious BET Awards in the Best International Act category.