Category: Entertainment

  • Dandy Krazy died as a grandfather

    Dandy Krazy died as a grandfather

    IN a somber ceremony filled with tears and heartfelt tributes, the three eldest daughters of the late Zambian music icon Wesley Chibambo, popularly known as Dandy Krazy, stood bravely to honour their father’s memory.

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    The legendary musician, who passed away after a tragic road accident on January 2, this year, was remembered not only as a talented artiste but also as a loving father whose presence shaped the lives of his children.

    While many Zambians only knew Dandy to have been a father of five, four beautiful daughters and a son, he was also a grandfather to one.

    This was revealed yesterday during his funeral service at the Lusaka Show Grounds.

    Comfort Chibambo, the firstborn daughter, opened the family’s tributes with an emotional speech that captured the pain and responsibility she now shoulders in her father’s absence.

    “Even in your death, we will always love and appreciate you, and I promise that I will make you proud together with my siblings,” Comfort said.

    Reflecting on her dreams of a future that now feels incomplete, Comfort shared her longing for her father to walk her down the aisle and perform at her wedding.

    “Daddy, as your first child, I would always imagine you walking me down the aisle. I would even tell my siblings that on that day, you would perform along with your friends. But daddy, your friends have come to accompany you at your funeral instead,” she emotionally added.

    Despite her grief, Comfort vowed to remain strong for her siblings and to honour her father’s legacy.

    “I’m standing boldly for the sake of my siblings and our mother. You have left an emptiness in our hearts, but I will always be here for them,” said Comfort.

    Towela Chibambo, the second daughter, offered her own tribute, as she remembered the bond she shared with her father and the values he instilled in her.

    “From the time I met you, and from the time I realised you were my father, I thought we never shared a strong bond, simply because you were busy with work trying to make our lives better,” Towela shared.

    She went on to describe her father as a man of remarkable character, whose strength, honesty, and dedication inspired everyone who knew him.

    “Beyond the role of a father, my dad was a man of remarkable character. He valued honesty, hard work, and the simple joys of life. Whether he was working tirelessly to provide for us or teaching us life lessons, he believed in doing what was right, even when it was difficult,” she said.

    Though she mourned the loss of her father’s physical presence, Towela expressed confidence that his legacy would live on through the values he instilled in his children.

    “Even though he is no longer with us, my father’s legacy will live on in the values he taught us and the lessons he gave,” she said.

    The youngest of the three speakers, Shekinah Chibambo, shared how she had a unique bond with her father.

    “To my late father Wesley Chibambo, he was not only my father but also my friend. My father was kind, funny, and entertaining. He taught us the ways of life and was the best father one could ever ask for.”

    Shekinah’s grief was compounded by the fact that her birthday now coincides with the day her father passed away.

    “Your death brought me pain. You have a special place in my heart. I will forever remember the day you died as my birthday and your death day,” she said.

    The three daughters concluded their speeches with heartfelt promises to honour their father’s memory and keep his spirit alive in their hearts.

    As the daughters of Dandy Krazy stood before the gathered crowd, of fans, friends, family and supporters of their late father, their tributes only painted a different picture of Dandy that Zambia had never seen or imagined.

    They proved that Dandy never failed to be a present father to his children let alone be an absent grandfather despite of his showbiz lifestyle.

    Pictures and Story by Buumba Mwitumwa

    Kalemba January 7, 2025

  • From the first day I met you, I knew you were something special – Dandy’s widow

    From the first day I met you, I knew you were something special – Dandy’s widow

    “Zambia and indeed the world has lost a musical genius. But I have lost the love of my life,” Dandy Krazy’s wife Hellen Chalwe penned down in a tribute as the country bid farewell to her husband yesterday.

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    “I will live to remember that fateful night on December 31, 2024 when I received that call informing me of an accident that changed my life negatively. That road accident forever altered the course of our lives.”

    On Monday, Zambians braved the rains to send off Wesley Chibambo AKA Dandy Krazy whose works and talent were unmatched.

    At a ceremony held at the Agricultural and Commercial Show grounds, the event was filled with mixed emotions, laughter, sorrow, dances and gratitude for his talent.

    But, despite the hundreds of Zambians who filled the Lusaka Show grounds yesterday, no one could have known the 47 year old artiste better than his rib, Hellen – the woman he spent over 14 years in marriage with and raised five children.

    In her tribute, Hellen delivered a moving eulogy that captured the essence of the man she loved deeply.

    Her words painted a portrait of not only an extraordinary artist but also a kind, gentle soul whose love and warmth defined the lives of those closest to him.

    “From the first moment we crossed paths, I knew you were something special. Your talent was undeniable, and your passion for music was infectious,” Hellen stated in a speech read on her behalf.

    “But beyond being a musician, you were a kind and gentle soul with a heart that loved deeply.”

    Known for his energetic performances and music that resonated with Zambians from all walks of life, Dandy Krazy’s legacy extends far beyond his artistry.

    Hellen described him as a visionary and dreamer whose music gave voice to the voiceless and touched countless lives.

    “King Dandy, bashi Towela, you were more than just an extraordinary musician. You were a source of light to all who knew you. Your music came from the depth of your spirit, speaking to all who listened,” she said.

    But to Hellen and their children, Dandy Krazy was much more than a public figure. He was a devoted husband and father whose love and playfulness filled their home with joy.

    “Our home will not be the same because we have lost our personal entertainer, the children and I will miss the playful you, singing and dancing with us. You had an incredible ability to make everyone feel loved,” Hellen shared.

    According to the widow, the tragic accident that claimed Dandy’s life served as a stark reminder of life’s fragility, leaving a void in the hearts of those who loved him and that despite the pain of his loss, she found solace in the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

    “Your spirit will continue to live through your music, memories, and the countless lives you impacted. To your fans, friends, and family, know that his spirit is still with us—alive in every song, story, and memory we carry forward.”

    “Rest in peace, my love. You will never be forgotten. Your music will echo through time, inspiring generations to dream, love, and create.”

    Dandy Krazy’s funeral was attended by hundreds, a reflection of his immense popularity and the profound impact of his music on the nation.

    His legacy as a trailblazer in Zambian music and a loving family man will forever be etched in the hearts of all who knew him.

    Dandy Krazy succumbed to injuries following a fatal road accident that claimed the lives of four others including his dancer, driver and backing vocalist in Kapiri Mposhi while headed to Kitwe for a new year’s performance.

    By Buumba Mwitumwa

    Kalemba January 7, 2025

  • Police give Y-Celeb, others, detour from Dandy’s funeral to cells

    Police give Y-Celeb, others, detour from Dandy’s funeral to cells

    COMMOTION is known to follow 28 year old Copperbelt rapper Webster Chikabala alias Y- Celeb who was given a detour to the police station instead of his planned destination – Dandy Krazy’s funeral service.

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    Y- Celeb and 14 others, including a 13 year old juvenile were apprehended by police officers on charges for conduct likely to cause the breach of peace after he gathered about 30 people from Intercity who were running along Church Road, making loud noise and blocking motorists and other road users.

    Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga said the incident happened around 12:00 hours yesterday.

    “Upon intervention, 15 suspects were apprehended.Investigations revealed that the suspects were trotting from Intercity Bus Terminus to the Show grounds to attend the funeral of the late Zambian musician, Wesley Chibambo Dandy Krazy, whose burial took place [on Monday].”

    “The suspects were detained for the subject offense of conduct likely to cause the breach of peace. Following their admission of guilt, they were fined and subsequently released after paying the prescribed admission of guilty fines,” disclosed Hamoonga.

    The Zambia Police Service urged the public desist from engaging in activities that disrupt public order and inconvenience others and cautioned “Appropriate action will be taken against any individuals found in violation of the law.”

    This is not the first time, Kopala artiste is attracting attention for the wrong reasons as he was recently detained for a similar offence on the Copperbelt during a Chipolopolo AfCON qualifiers match at Levy Mwanawasa.

    And in 2020 he also pulled in a crowd at the late musician Daeve’s funeral causing a similar commotion but it was controlled.

    Meanwhile, the apprehension of the group got the police acclaim from vlogger, Simon Mwewa who didn’t attend the funeral because he feared for his life after making, what many thought was insensitive remarks during the time, Dandy Krazy was involved in an accident which eventually led to five casualties.

    Mwewa later claimed that his remarks were not targeted at Dandy but an awareness message to musicians that they should not drink and drive or else they would die.

    The apprehended persons have been identified as follows:Webster Chikabala, Savior Musonda, 24,Paul Miteba, aged 27, Adamson Banda, aged 28, and a male juvenile, aged 13, reportedly to be Super Kena, another musician.

    Others included; Titus Kaimbo, aged 29,
    Luckson Zulu, aged 30, Shadreck Sikasali, aged 26, juveniles, aged 18 and 17, Darlington Mwanje, aged 26, Joe Kasongo, Moyaya Mwamba, aged 30, Lizzy Zavare, aged 22 and 19 year old Sikanisiwe Ngazimbe.

    By Moses Makwaya

    Kalemba January 7, 2025

  • Dandy was like my elder brother, he inspired my music, mourns Tommy D

    Dandy was like my elder brother, he inspired my music, mourns Tommy D

    THE death of Zambian music icon, Dandy Krazy has left the industry and the country in grief as fans and fellow musicians have been mourning his loss since the announcement of his death of Thursday.

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    For Thomas Kaluba, popularly known as Tommy D, the loss of Dandy Krazy whose government name is Wesley Chibambo is deeply personal, as he recalls the bond they shared and the profound influence Dandy Krazy had on his life and career.

    Speaking about their relationship to Kalemba, Tommy D described Dandy as more than just a colleague.

    “To me, Dandy Krazy was like an elder brother. His death is shocking and saddening. He was an inspiration, not just to the industry but to me personally. Sometimes, when I felt my music wasn’t making sense, I would look at him. Music was natural to him, it was who he was.” Tommy D shared.

    He reflected on the unpredictability of life, noting how Dandy Krazy’s passing has left a void that can never be filled in the music industry.

    “I was in Mpika when I woke up to the heartbreaking news, and we’re still in disbelief. Life is truly unpredictable. We don’t know when our time will come, but losing someone like him feels like losing a part of ourselves.”

    Beyond the music, Dandy was a mentor and a source of strength for many in the industry.

    “He paved the way for so many of us, especially on the Copperbelt. He introduced the Jerabos and ‘Kopala Swag’ to the world. For us musicians, he was someone we could always look up to,” Tommy added.

    As friends and colleagues mourn, Tommy D said artiste are all making plans to ensure that Dandy has a proper send-off and that his memory is remembered.

    “His family is in our prayers, and we will continue to celebrate his legacy,” said Tommy D.

    By Buumba Mwitumwa

    Kalemba January 4, 2025

  • Mourners turn Dandy Krazy’s funeral into party

    Mourners turn Dandy Krazy’s funeral into party

    THE sombre mood that initially shrouded the residence of music legend Dandy Krazy in Lusaka has given way to an electric atmosphere, as fans and friends transform the mourning gathering into an impromptu party.

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    The wails of grief that once filled the air have been replaced by the pulsating beats of Dandy Krazy’s greatest hits, blasting from massive speakers stationed at the entrance of the house of mourning.

    With songs such as Not Guilty, Baloon Type, I love You Mummy, Dibili dibili, Nyeleti and others being played repeatedly, the house of mourning is somewhat indicative of a Dandy Krazy day time gig.

    As the iconic tunes from Dandy Krazy’s loud legacy of music career fill the air, mourners can’t help but let loose, dancing in memory of him, as if to reincarnate the 47 year-old singer who succumbed to injuries in the early hours of Thursday, following a road traffic accident on December 31, 2024.

    With live equipment already set up, it’s likely that music performances will take centre stage later in the evening, adding an extra layer of celebration to Dandy Krazy’s life and legacy.

    Children of the streets, fellow artistes and friends are converging upon the affluent Chalala neighbourhood, turning the usually tranquil streets into a vibrant tribute to Dandy Krazy’s enduring lyrical legacy.

    As the crowds swell, the energy is becoming infectious, transforming mourning ritual into a joyous commemoration of the impact Dandy Krazy’s music had, and still has, on their lives.

    While others are dancing to King Dandy’s songs, others are seated in mounted tents, mimicking along and probably humming to Dandy Krazy’s songs.

    Dandy Krazy, real name Wesley Chibambo, died in the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in the early hours of Thursday, following a road traffic accident that occurred between Kabwe and Kapiri Mposhi on Tuesday evening.

    Four other people, including Dandy Krazy’s dancer, driver and backing vocalist, died in the same accident.

    Since his emergence on the music scene back in 2007, there has been widespread concensus that Dandy Krazy ranked among Zambia’s most prolific music composers and stage performers.

    In 2011, his hit song Donchi Kubeba was adopted as a campaign theme by then opposition Michael Sata-led Patriotic Front (PF) that helped them sweep to power.

    Story and pictures Salim Dawood

    Kalemba January 4, 2025

  • Honour people who have made a mark in our country with official funeral, not just politicians – Jere

    Honour people who have made a mark in our country with official funeral, not just politicians – Jere

    FOLLOWING the recent passing of renowned Zambian musician Wesley Chibambo, popularly known as Dandy Crazy, at the age of 47, lawyer, Dickson Jere has called for an official funeral to honour the late artiste’s significant contributions to the nation.

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    “Mr Wesley Chibambo… touched many souls in Zambia. He made us dance to his music. He made us laugh with his lingua. He was simply a guy you cannot afford to hate. Ever jovial…he brought us together as a nation using music and art,” stated Jere on his Facebook page.

    “When such a guy passes on, he needs to be honoured and appreciated by the nation. We cannot continue to only recognise politicians for official funerals.”

    Jere advocated for the expanded category of official funeral beneficiaries to include people from the academia, sports, arts and music, and those who have made a lasting impact on the country.

    Meanwhile, Jere clarified that he is advocating for an official funeral, not a state funeral, which has specific eligibility criteria.

    “I have said Official Funeral and not State Funeral. The latter has a written policy which stipulate the persons entitled and all. But official funerals can be granted to anyone by discretion. At least the State can take over the expenses for the funeral and assist in the burial arrangements,” explained Jere.

    Since Zambia got independence over 60 years ago, only renowned football commentator, Dennis Liwewe was accorded an official funeral outside the custom of recognising government officials and ex government officials.

    By Moses Makwaya

    Kalemba January 3, 2024

  • Kambwili asks Zambians for forgiveness as birthday wish

    Kambwili asks Zambians for forgiveness as birthday wish

    FORMER Cabinet Minister and Roan Member of Parliament, Chishimba Kambwili, who was involved in a fatal road traffic accident that claimed the lives of his two brothers last year is grateful for his life as he turns a year older today.

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    The accident occured last October as Kambwili and his entourage were en route to Kasama for a court appearance.

    Kambwili, his lawyer, and driver survived with injuries while his brothers Mutale and Mwamba lost their lives instantly.

    Today in a Facebook post, Kambwili said he was recovering and expressed gratitude to God for granting him another year of life despite the physical and emotional pain he continues to endure from multiple fractures he sustained.

    “I thank God our Father for adding one more year to my life. Despite the pain, I am slowly recovering. The Lord has been very gracious to me,” Kambwili who just turned 56, wrote.

    He took a moment to appreciate his family, particularly his wife, Carol, and their children, for their unwavering support during this challenging period.

    In a heartfelt appeal to Zambians, Kambwili extended an apology to those he may have offended in the past, urging forgiveness as he reflected on his humanity and shortcomings.

    “I would also like to take this opportunity to apologise to all the Zambian’s who I might have offended, knowingly or unknowingly. My only birthday wish is that you can forgive me, I am only but human, May God have mercy on me and forgive my sins. Amen.”

    By Moses Makwaya

    Kalemba January 3, 2025

  • Government to cover Dandy Krazy, four deceased’s funeral costs

    Government to cover Dandy Krazy, four deceased’s funeral costs

    GOVERNMENT has revealed that it will assist with covering the funeral costs of musician Wesley Chibambo alias Dandy Krazy and that of the four others who died in the road traffic accident.

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    Ministry of Youth, Sports and Arts permanent secretary Fumbe Chama disclosed that government, through the National Arts Council is working hand in hand with the Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM).

    Chama stated that government is now working at repatriating the bodies of the four who died on the spot from Kapiri to Lusaka and Copperbelt respectively.

    “As government, we are doing everything we can to support the families. We are working closely with the Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) through the National Arts Council to support the already [established] interventions in making sure that we successfully mourn our colleagues.”

    “So as the National Arts Council and ZAM, we are working at repartriating the bodies from Kapiri to Lusaka, one to the Copperbelt,” he shared.

    And ZAM president Davis Munsanda told Kalemba that the deceased artistes will all be accorded with the same respect and send off.

    “All the artistes regardless of being upcoming that lost their lives, including the driver that was taking them to the event is regarded as the friend of the arts. We are handling all the funerals at the same time. We are working hand in hand with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Arts. National Arts Council and ZAM.”

    “We have made progress to ensure that we give a befitting burial to all of them. We will ensure that it is an equal treat to all of them. The fans should be more united” stated Munsanda.

    By Catherine Pule

    Kalemba, January 2, 2025

  • Dandy could have waited a little, I’m still in disbelief mourns Slap Dee

    Dandy could have waited a little, I’m still in disbelief mourns Slap Dee

    RAPPER, Slap Dee has bemoaned the death of fellow Artiste, Wesley Chibamba popularly known Dandy Krazy, calling him an all round entertainer, whose legacy can never be forgotten.

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    In an interview with Kalemba, Slap Dee whose real name, Mwila Musonda, mourned Dandy saying he was a man that could be anything more than just a musician on the stage.

    “Atisokoneza Dandy why sanayembekezeko che panono, chayipa not Dandy zoona. (Dandy has confused us, he could have waited a little, it is really sad, not just him) Dandy was an all round artiste. Dandy was an entertainer. There is a difference between an entertainer and a musician, Dandy was an entertainer.”

    “He could sing, he could entertain, he could kill jokes, you can tell that if the guy decided to do stand up Comedy, he could have made it, if he decided to be a politician, he could have made it,” said Slap Dee.

    Slap Dee continued that Dandy was they type of the person who could change the mood of a room with just his appearance only, adding that his legacy is something that will be remembered by people even in centuries to come.

    “Dandy was the type who could walk in a room and you feel the energy change. Whether it is with Laughter, whether it is with seriousness, so he was more than just a musician and such people are hard to forget it will take centuries for people to forget him.

    “He was the first artiste to be honoured by President Sata, which says something about what kind of a person he was. They were a lot of artistes that went through him, hence the name, ‘King Dandy’ so he will be greatly missed.”

    Slap Dee added that despite being close in the industry, the two never had any song together but collaborated on awareness songs.

    “Sadly we didn’t have any song of our own together unless awareness songs. But we always thought of doing songs together, unfortunately it took long to happen but I’m still in denial over it, like many others,” said Slap Dee.

    Dandy died in the early hours of today from the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) after he was involved in a road accident on Tuesday evening which claimed four other lives.

    The artiste together with his colleagues were reportedly travelling to Kitwe for a new year performance when they mate their fate along the Great North Road in Kapiri Mposhi.

    By Buumba Mwitumwa

    Kalemba January 2, 2025

  • Hichilema mourns Dandy Crazy

    Hichilema mourns Dandy Crazy

    PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has joined in mourning celebrated Copperbelt artiste Wesley Chibambo popularly known as Dandy Crazy who succumbed to accident injuries early this morning.

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    The music sensation was on New Year’s Eve involved in a road traffic accident near Kapiri on the Great North Road which left him badly injured and four others dead.

    He was immediately taken to Kabwe Central Hospital and later evacuated to UTH where he was receiving treatment until his death.

    Yesterday, the artiste received brain surgery and the condition still remained extremely serious.

    UTH Adult public relations officer Nzeba Chanda informed the nation this morning that Dandy Crazy died at 01:42 hours today.

    President Hichilema described Dandy’s music as one that touched lives far and wide together with his charisma which crossed all boundaries and brought people together.

    “It is with profound sadness and heartfelt sorrow that we learn of the passing of Wesley Chibambo, fondly known as Dandy Crazy.

    “We extend our deepest condolences to his family and to all the citizens who cherished and supported this extraordinary artiste.”

    “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and countless fans during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” wrote President Hichilema.

    The Head of State also mourned the four others who died on the spot, Makofi Humphrey, Christopher Muyembe and two others yet to be identified.

    By Catherine Pule

    Kalemba, January 2, 2025