Lilongwe cerebrates Soldiers 42nd birthday

Mungo Park in Lilongwe was filled to overflowing on Friday night to celebrate with arguably Malawi’s most successful musician Lucius Banda as he celebrated his 42nd birthday in style.

The line-up of musicians was very impressive. The variety of music ranged from reggae from the Black Missionaries, R&B from Lulu, fusion of kwasakwasa and local music from Phungu Joseph Nkasa, lovers rock from Anthony Makondetsa, militant reggae from Moda Fumulani and of course Lucius’ own classics.

Skeffa Chimoto was also on the line up as he dished his spiritual songs bringing the fans back to reality to worship God.

It was a night to behold, a night of fun and no patron was left wanting despite the poor sound system. Lucius himself was at his best and his performance was so touching that when he bowed out of stage his fans begged him to perform on.

The Blacks were a bit off tune on the night and it was a rare occasion to see fans booing them to get off stage. But this small incident did not dampen the party mood.

“What can I say apart from expressing my heart-felt thanks to all musicians who have honoured me tonight and you the fans who have come to celebrate with me. I do not take it for granted,” said the self-acclaimed Soldier of the poor.

Prior to his performing Lucius gave out T-shirts and other assorted gifts to lucky fans who got his questions right.

“I’m glad that people watched this show. It was worthwhile. You cannot take away the fact that Lucius is the best thing to have happened to Malawi music. His music is so touching and lasting,” said Chimwemwe Phiri, one of his fans.

Blacks Band leader Anjiru Fumulani and Skeffa too paid homage to Lucius, describing him as a model musician.