Zambian music legend Wesley Chibambo, popularly known as Dandy Krazy, has passed away at the age of 47 from injuries sustained in a devastating road collision on New Year’s Eve.
The accident occurred in Zambia’s Kapiri Mposhi region when Dandy Krazy’s vehicle collided with a truck and a second car.
Three people lost their lives at the scene, while the beloved musician succumbed to his injuries early Thursday morning despite undergoing emergency surgery at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka.
President Hakainde Hichilema paid tribute to the late artist, describing him as an “extraordinary artist” whose “music and charisma touched lives far and wide, crossing all boundaries and bringing people together.”
Dandy Krazy’s daughter, Comfort, shared an emotional tribute, noting the heartbreak of losing her father on her sister Shanice’s birthday. “Even in death, we will always love you, Papa. I have no time to question God but agree to His will, though His will hurts,” she wrote.
Renowned for his socially conscious music, Dandy Krazy’s 2011 hit Donchi Kubeba played a significant role in the Patriotic Front’s (PF) victory in the general elections, ending the Movement for Multiparty Democracy’s 20-year rule. The song, meaning “Don’t Tell Them,” highlighted Zambia’s economic disparities and lack of opportunities.
His contributions earned him the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of Freedom from former President Michael Sata.
Tributes poured in from across the nation, including from politician and lawyer Sakwiba Sikota, who compared Dandy Krazy’s impact to global icons like Bob Marley and Nina Simone, praising his ability to “articulate social and political commentaries through music.”
The Zambian government has pledged support for the funeral expenses of Dandy Krazy and the other victims of the tragic accident.
Dandy Krazy’s legacy lives on through timeless hits such as Chintelelwe, Chipuba Chandi by Indi K, and Temperature by Uniq, leaving an indelible mark on Zambia’s music and cultural history.
