Fresh Details Emerge in Death of Macheso Band Member – Eduzim News

By Showbiz Reporter-Fresh details have emerged surrounding the sudden death of Barnabas Mandipota, a longtime backing vocalist for sungura legend Alick Macheso.

Mandipota, a key member of Orchestra Mberikwazvo, reportedly passed away on Sunday, sending shockwaves through the band and fans of the genre.

Sources within the group said the vocalist had complained of a toothache while performing at Club Tanza in Chitungwiza on Saturday night.

“We were in the middle of the performance when he complained of a toothache. Mdara (Macheso) was informed and immediately relieved him from the stage. He instructed that he be taken home to rest, and if the pain persisted, he should be taken to hospital. He was taken home, and we only heard on Sunday morning that he had passed on,” said a band insider.

Macheso confirmed the death on Sunday afternoon through his social media platforms, posting a brief but emotional message that reflected both grief and humility.

“Impfa Nimulandi – Rufu Imbavha,” he wrote, before adding,

“Ku hama, shamwari nemadzisahwira tine hurombo kukuzivisai kurasikirwa kwataitwa ne umwe wedu wataibata naye, Barnabas Mandipota.”

Known not only for his musical brilliance but also for his humility and close relationship with his band members, Macheso has built Orchestra Mberikwazvo into one of Zimbabwe’s most disciplined and tightly knit musical outfits. Over the years, he has earned a reputation for treating his band as family — often supporting members both on and off the stage.

Mandipota was regarded as one of the group’s finest backing vocalists, contributing to the rich harmonies that have defined Macheso’s signature sungura sound. His presence on stage and in the studio made him an integral part of the band’s success.

His sudden passing has left a void within Orchestra Mberikwazvo, with fellow musicians and fans mourning the loss of a dedicated performer whose voice helped shape one of Zimbabwe’s most enduring musical legacies.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family and the band.

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