Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Faith Mazibuko pays condolences to renowned musician Ray Phiri, who tragically passed away this morning at the age of 70 following a battle with cancer.
Phiri was an iconic Grammy Award winning musician whose music transcended musical genres and geographical boarders. He performed all over the world as a founding member of music groups The Cannibals and Stimela and in 2011 was honoured with the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver by President Zuma for his contributions to South African music industry.
“The sad news of Phiri’s passing is extremely difficult to receive, as he was icon musician whose work made a global impact enjoying international success and acclaim. The nation’s jazz music fraternity has truly suffered another great loss on the heels of the passing of Dr Johnny Mekoa.” says MEC for the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Faith Mazibuko.
“The beauty in music is that those who loved and admired him can find comfort and strength in the music he left behind. My deepest condolences to his family at this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace”, concluded the MEC Mazibuko.
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