Longombas member Christian dies aged 36

The singer died from a brain tumour and his twin brother, Lovy Longomba, confirmed the death in a statement on 14 March. “Christian Hulu Longomba (30 June 1984 – 13 March 2021), son of Lovy Longomba Snr and Mado Zaina, made his transition to heaven, Saturday morning in Los Angeles, California, from a long-suffered illness,” the statement reads.

“Christian was well-loved, and we celebrate his gifts and talents that he shared with the entire world. With great love and appreciation for the support and love shown to Christian by fans, family and friends, we kindly ask for privacy during this time. God bless you all.”

The Longombas started out as a duo in 2002 and released their debut album in 2005. That same year, they were named Best East Africa Group at the continental Kora Awards and Best Group in East Africa at the Chaguo La Teeniez Awards in Kenya.

In 2006, they won in the Best Group from Kenya, Best Song and Best Social Responsibility categories at the Kisima Awards. Some of the group’s well-known songs include ‘Vuta Pumz’, ‘Dondosa’, ‘Piga Makofi’ and ‘Shika More’. Their last song was ‘My Queen’, which was released in 2010, four years after the two brothers relocated to the US. In 2015, Christian was diagnosed with a brain tumour and underwent two surgeries before. Lovy is currently a pastor in LA.

News of Christian’s death caused an outpouring of grief on social media from various players in the Kenyan entertainment industry.

“Rest in peace, homeboy,” Kenyan rapper Nonini wrote on Facebook. “Your contribution to the Kenyan music industry shall never be forgotten. Condolence to Lovy and the entire family.”

Popular radio personality Maina Kageni wrote: “Good night, Christian Longomba. You and Lovi were part of a period of sweet success that Kenyan music had never had before. You bow out as you came in – as a real superstar. Thank you for the music.”

The Longombas hailed from a well-known musical family. Their father, Lovy Longomba Snr, was a member of the popular Congolese rumba band Orchestra Super Mazembe. His brother is Awilo Longomba. Their grandfather, Vicky Longomba, was a member of the famous TPOK Jazz band founded by Franco Luambo.