Iconic 'Jambo Bwana' Singer Ted Kalanda of Them Mushrooms Is Dead

18 September 2024

• Them Mushrooms is a musical band from Kenya, playing mostly Chakacha, some Benga, and also some reggae.

Ted Kalanda, a member of the renowned Mushroom Band, has passed away. According to Maina Kageni's co-host, Mwalimu Kingangi, Kalanda died last night (Tuesday, September 17, 2024).

Maina and Kingangi expressed their condolences during today's Morning Show.

Kalanda passed away at his home in Kaloleni, Kilifi County, after a long battle with cancer. The Mushroom Band, known for its music in the Chakacha, Benga, and reggae genres, gained fame with their 1982 Swahili hit "Jambo Bwana."

"Jambo Bwana" (Hakuna Matata), the band's most significant hit recorded in 1980, earned them gold, silver, and platinum discs for sales exceeding 200,000.

The song also appeared on the charts in seven different versions, including a notable one by the disco group Boney M.

The band was originally composed of the late Ted Kalanda, Henry Ndenge Saha, and Ben Mutwiwa, and they were known for performing covers of previously successful songs.

The team celebrated 50 years together in December 2022. They relocated from Mombasa to Nairobi in 1987 and began their Nairobi career performing at the renowned Carnivore Simba Saloon.

For their 50th anniversary, the band reunited with fans at the Carnivore once again for a memorable performance. A large cake was cut by the band as fans joined in singing.

The celebration began with Dipakonnection, and the dress code was inspired by the best of the '70s. John Katana, the band's leader, shared fond memories of their musical journey.

"Them Mushrooms' journey started in 1972 in Kaloleni (Kilifi County), when five brothers—Teddy Kalanda Harrison, Billy Sarro Harrison, George Zirro Harrison, John Katana Harrison, and Dennis Kalume Harrison—initially founded the group. We were like our own version of 'The Jackson 5,'" he said.

He also explained the origin of their name: "We chose 'Them Mushrooms' rather than 'The Harrisons' because it sounded unique. At the time, other contemporary bands had names like The Spartans or The Vikings."