29/06/2025
Tribute to Clancy Mbirimi, Jazz Legend Par Excellence:
We mourn the passing of Clancy Mbirimi, a true pioneer in Zimbabwean jazz music. As one of the country’s earliest jazz bassists and guitarists, Clancy helped lay the foundation of our Afro-jazz legacy—shaping sounds that influenced generations.
His collaboration with our very own legend, Steve Makoni, defined an era. Clancy engineered one of Steve’s most iconic albums and colloborated on a few tracks—seamlessly blending Clancy’s jazzy bass grooves with Makoni’s storytelling voice. Their musical chemistry became a hallmark of Zimbabwean fusion, with tracks still resonating deeply in our hearts today.
Clancy’s talent and generosity are remembered fondly across the music community. Producer Clive “Mono” Mukundu posted, “I just learned that bassist Clancy Mbirimi (extreme left in the photo) passed away today… another devastating blow to Zimbabwe’s music…” . Facebook tributes from platforms like Earground Africa echoed this sorrow, calling him a “veteran guitarist and producer” whose loss is keenly felt .
Terrence Mapurisana—a respected voice in jazz radio—also spoke of Clancy’s impact: alongside peers like Kelly Rusike and Moses Kabubi, Clancy’s session work helped define the soundscape of Zimbabwean jazz .
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Rest in peace, Clancy. Your melodies remain immortal, your rhythms eternal, and your legacy forever woven into the tapestry of Zimbabwean music.
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A final, musical celebration: In honor of Clancy’s partnership, we will be sharing the duet “Wada Tora”, featuring Clancy Mbirimi and Steve Makoni on vocals. It’s a testament to their enduring friendship and creative synergy. Track available on all Digital Platforms.
Provided to YouTube by DistroKidWada Tora (feat. Clancy Mbirimi) (Remix) · Steve Makoni · Clancy Mbirimi · Steve Makoni · 6ixbeatsNdada, Ndada, Ndada (Rythm ...