Hakuna Matata Composer, Ted Kalanda Harrison who died in Kenya gets mourned all over East Africa

Tears are flowing all over East Africa and beyond following the demise of man behind ‘Hakuna Matata,’.

Ted Kalanda Harrison, a saxophonist who led Kenya’s successful music combo, Them Mushrooms, passed away aged 72.

He is credited with the global phenomenon track, ‘Jambo Bwana,’ the 1979 song which was essentially known for its Chorus ‘Hakuna Matata,’ a tagline that later adorned shirts, t-shirts, khangas and even Hollywood through the animated movie, ‘Lion King!’

The Germany band, ‘Boney M’ also covered the song ‘Hakuna Matata,’ as it previously covered the Tanzanian hit, ‘Malaika,’ both done in Kiswahili language.

But back home his band, ‘Them Mushrooms,’ made up of mostly siblings, was known for many other hit tracks such as Akinyi Nyar Kisumu, Nyambura, At the Carnivore, Embe Dodo (a cover), Itawezekanaje and Sisi kwa Sisi.

Formed in Mombasa before relocating to Nairobi, Them Mushrooms started out as a Chakacha ensemble playing mostly in tourist hotels, but later gained widespread fame in the 1980s after the release of ‘Hakuna Matata,’ which became an anthem for welcoming tourists into East Africa.

The band’s music style was a mixture of folk Taarab, Chakacha, Sega (also known as Benga), and reggae rhythms.

They used simple memorable lyrics that captivated fans and helped the band dominate the airwaves in the 80s, 90s and even after the turn of the new millennium.

In 1992 Them Mushroom, under the leadership of Ted Kalanda, teamed up with the Arusha-born, Tanzanian musician, turned gospel crooner, Shuaib Ole Monduli to record the latter’s three Christian albums, including the popular ‘A shining city!’

Hits like Mombasa siendi Tena and Embe Dodo transcended borders and became household tunes throughout East Africa and even overseas.

‘Them Mushrooms’ was later to become the symbol of Kenya’s vibrant music scene, and they even became one of the most celebrated groups in East Africa.

Their music inspired generations of Kenyan artists who blended traditional sounds with modern influences, paving the way for future musicians.

Harrison’s passing marks the end of an era for one of Kenya’s most beloved musical groups.

Ted Kalanda is survived by his two brothers, Billy Sarro and John Katana Harrison, after losing his other brothers Dennis Kalume and George Zirro in previous years.