‘Extraordinary’ Zambian musician dies after New Year’s Eve crash
Dandy Crazy, one of Zambia’s most popular musicians, has died from injuries sustained in a road collision on New Year’s Eve.
The 47-year-old – real name Wesley Chibambo – was traveling in the Kapiri Mposhi area of Zambia when his car collided with a truck and another car.
Three people died on the spot. Dandy Crazy died early Thursday despite being rushed to the University Teaching Hospital in the capital Lusaka for emergency surgery.
President Hakainde Hichilema was among those who paid tribute to the musician, calling him an “extraordinary artist”.
“His music and charisma touched the lives of people far and wide, crossing all boundaries and bringing people together,” Hichilema wrote in a Facebook post.
Dandy Crazy’s daughter, Comfort, said: “Daddy, you answered the Lord’s call on your third birthday Shanice. Even in death, we will always love you Papa. I don’t have time to question God Yes, but I agree with their wish, but Lord, your wish hurts.”
Dandy Crazy was known for using music as a tool for political commentary.
His song Donchi Kubeba is credited with helping bring the Patriotic Front (PF) to power in the 2011 elections, ending the movement’s 20-year run for multiparty democracy.
The song, whose title means Don’t Tell Them, lamented the unequal distribution of wealth and lack of opportunities in the country.
Former PF President Michael Sata later awarded Dandy Crazy the Grand Commander of the Order of Freedom.
His other songs include the hit Chintelelve. Dandy Crazy also popularized the tracks he performed, such as Indie by Chipuba Chandi and Temperature by Unique.
In mourning Dendi Crazy, politician and lawyer Sakwiba Sikota wrote on her Facebook page: “There is no doubt that Dendi Crazy was a giant in the Zambian music industry. His innovation and natural charm influenced many people.
“His social and political commentaries are strongly expressed through songs that have deep meaning, such as those of Bob Marley, Nina Simone, Bob Dylan, Peter Tosh, John Lennon, Arrested Development and Wyclef Jean.”
The government has announced that it will assist with funeral expenses for Dandy Crazy and others killed in the collision.
