Rumba sensation Milly Fedha keeps late brothers’ music bug alive

Super Limpopo International Band leader Milly Fedha, performs during the launch of their video Hera Neko at Summer Link in Kariobangi South, Nairobi last Saturday. [PHOTO: BONIFACE OKENDO/STANDARD]

NAIROBI: The music bug that propelled Musa Juma Mumbo and Omondi Tony to rumba stardom has not spared their sister Milly Fedha Mumbo.

Juma and Omondi’s deaths seven and four years ago, respectively appear to have infused a compelling drive into their younger sister, who is keeping their legacy alive.

The Super Limpopo International (formerly Limpopo International) band leader is commanding adulation among fans locally and internationally.

Founded by Juma 24 years ago, the band is credited with being at the forefront in redefining Luo rumba music, making it a must-listen even among those who hardly understand the language.

Omondi, who quit the band to go solo, died in 2008 through a road accident while Juma lost his life three years later hardly two weeks upon returning from a six-month US tour.

Despite the loss, the band remains popular and Rumba enthusiasts, making established musicians envious, some even going out of their way to discredit the band.

But Milly, who bares ambition as her middle name, has proved to be an exceptional musician. Her music is properly arranged, educative, entertaining and highly danceable.

Some of her well known hits, which have forced competitors to go back to the drawing board, are; Yatima, Baba Natasha, Rapar Musa, Rapar Omondi Tony and Mama Nyaukwala.

Milly recently launched a five-track album, Hera Neko in memory of her two siblings. The event, graced by one of the top rumba artistes Prezda Bandasson of Patron Musica band was well attended.

“I am glad that fans from all walks of life were able to enjoy our music besides getting the chance to sample some of our latest tunes and dancing styles that kept them dancing to our rich sounds all night long,” said Milly. “This is a sign that I am headed in the right direction,” she added.

Indeed Milly’s unique vocals and exhilarating performances have made her one of the fastest rumba artistes. Her 14-member band has been touring the country.

“It is a rare privilege for Super Limpopo International to perform in various parts of the country to people of different ethnic backgrounds. This is a sign that we are headed in the right direction,” she said.

Milly, who has been singing for five years now, has so far released two albums, Yatima and Siaya County. The six-track Yatima was released in 2013 while the five-track Siaya County was released a year later.

STRONGER LIMPOPO

Done in rumba, chakacha with a tinge of benga styles, and sang in Dholuo and Kiswahili languages, they comprise several songs among them Paul kapuonja, Nyathi gi Akinyi and Mama Nyaukwala.

But like many successful bands out there, Limpopo has its fair share of controversy.

Critics say the band has been low musically having failed to release hit songs like Mercelina, Hera Mudho and Freddy. These tunes catapulted it to fame both locally and internationally.

Others have even written it off saying it is ‘no more’. It was alleged that differences between them led to a few members quitting upon Musa Juma’s death, claims that Milly confirmed.

However, Milly, who has since taken over as the bands manager, maintains that Limpopo gets stronger and better by the day.

She said some members have released solo albums that have been well received.

“With support from my husband I found a replacement for some of the band members who have quickly mastered the art of our music besides emerging favourites with the crowd,” she said.