Singer Rhino Kaboom dies in accident

The late Kalenjin Secular Musician Harmon Kipkirui Rono popularly known as Rhino Kaboom. [Gilbert Kimutahi, Standard]

Music fans are mourning a promising musician, Harmon Kipkirui Rono, popularly known as Rhino Kaboom, who died in a road accident on Sunday evening.

Rhino Kaboom (pictured), was killed after his motorbike was involved in a head-on collision with a Probox in Emining, Baringo County. He died on the spot, according to Rift Valley Traffic Enforcement Officer Dorothy Muleke.

His body was taken to Eldama Ravine Hospital morgue.

The 27-year-old musician is known for hit songs like Tamu Tamu Beril Chomyet, Criminal Chomyet Verah, Monica and Lulu.

Kalenjin FM radio stations dedicated sessions for the musician's fans to give their tribute, as his songs went on air in his memory.

“It is really sad losing such a young and promising musician. I pray that God gives the family grace and strength during this trying time,” award-winning star Emmy Kosgei told The Standard on a telephone interview.

“Rest in perfect peace @Rhono Kaboom. It is unbelievable you are no more…,” wrote Favour Jackie Official.

Kalenjin Music Association yesterday said his death was a big blow to the music industry.

“We are saddened and shocked by the demise of Rhino and ask members of the public to pray for the family during this trying time,” said the association’s chairman Makiche Rotich.

Speaking to journalists in Bomet, Makiche said the musician had left a huge gap at the association where he was an active member.

“He has left a huge gap within our association and in the music fraternity,” he said.

Rhino star’s death comes less than three years after the death of five musicians from Kenene International Band in Nakuru’s Salgaa hotspot.

Jackline Chepkemoi of Kapchumbe sisters band said the rate at which the community was losing artistes was worrying.

“In the last five years we have lost very talented musicians from the Kalenjin community and we pray that these tragedies end,” Chepkemoi said.

Rhino hailed from Londiani in Kericho.

Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok said Rhino’s music was entertaining and educative.