Remembering Thudinyane from ‘Siwelewele’

Following the death of People’s Choice member Martin Thudinyane last week, artists have described him as an icon of old times.

Thudinyane died in Windhoek last week after a long battle with an illness.

The Gobabis-based group gained popularity after releasing the classic hit song ‘Siwelewele’, which gained massive airplay in the 1990s.

Speaking to unWrap.online, visual artist and musician Hishishi Papa says although he had no close relationship with the singer, he will always be remembered as a great musician who made an impact in the music scene.

“It’s very sad that we have lost such great musicians over the years – not only him, but many others who have not been valued or appreciated musically in Namibia while they were alive,” he says.

The ‘Aantu Aantuu’ hitmaker says the group made “true Namibian music”.

“It’s a pity. They did Namibian music with a touch of Tswana, but we don’t have a culture of appreciating our own in this country,” Papa says.

According to the singer, Thudinyane’s death should be seen as a reminder to check in with those who are still alive.

Meanwhile, National Democratic Party (NDP) leader Martin Lukato wrote on Facebook that Thudinyane’s death is a big loss to the group, the Matswana and the Namibian nation.

He described him as one of the great stars of music in Africa and the world at large.

“He will be remembered by me, Brave Lukato Lukato, and the NDP. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he wrote.

Activist Michael Amushelelo on social media said as a child growing up in the 90s, the ‘Siwelewele’ music video was his old-time favourite.

“I truly enjoyed watching this video, it was a personal favourite. To the family, my sincerest condolences, and I most certainly hope we as a nation will be able to contribute financially towards the burial,” he said, further mentioning that people are only remembered once they are dead.

“The Namibian Annual Music Awards have failed them. They should have given them an award for decades, influence and dedication, and should have shown them the nation for those who never knew them. They are historical,” a fan said on social media.

Messages and phone calls to Thudinyane’s relatives remained unanswered. – unWrap.online