Reporter-Veteran bassist Clancy Mbirimi has died.
The news of Mbirimi’s death was first announced on socil media by famous music producer Clive Mono Mukundu.
His death is a painful loss to the country’s cultural landscape and a stark reminder of how quickly our musical giants are disappearing.was one of Zimbabwe’s longest-serving and most respected musicians, known for his calm demeanour, deep musical knowledge, and unmatched command of the bass guitar.
A stalwart of the golden era of Zimbabwean music, Mbirimi’s career spanned decades, during which he played in and collaborated with several iconic bands, including the legendary Harare Mambos.
Formed in the early 1970s, the Harare Mambos were one of the most influential bands of post-independence Zimbabwe, renowned for their jazz-infused Afro-pop sound and crisp arrangements.
Led by the charismatic vocalist and guitarist Green Jangano, the group’s music became a fixture on local radio and in live venues across the country.
Clancy Mbirimi’s melodic and rhythmic basslines were central to the group’s sound, giving groove and depth to timeless songs that blended township jazz, rhumba, and traditional Zimbabwean sounds.
Mbirimi also had a long-standing musical relationship with Steve “Dhongi” Makoni, one of Zimbabwe’s most loved musical humorists and acoustic storytellers.
Their collaboration went beyond stage performances, Mbirimi provided musical direction and bass accompaniment for many of Makoni’s performances and studio recordings.
Their synergy was a joy to behold, with Clancy’s musical sensitivity perfectly complementing Steve’s sharp wit and lyrical prowess.
Aside from performing, Mbirimi was also a music producer who worked with various record labels, contributing to the growth and development of emerging Zimbabwean talent. He played a behind-the-scenes but pivotal role in the careers of many musicians.
Mono Mukundu posted: In my book, Following the Melody, I recount on page 145 how Clancy was the first to notice my production potential.
He encouraged veteran producer Elias Msakwa to consider me for a role as a music producer—an opportunity that proved to be a turning point in my life. I owe him a great deal.
We also collaborated on several music projects over the years, and in 1999, Clancy and I were part of the Revival Ministries Praise and Worship Team, where his basslines once again anchored soulful worship sessions that moved congregations deeply.
Clancy Mbirimi’s death is more than the passing of a musician—it is the burning down of a wealthy library of Zimbabwean musical memory and knowledge. He was a gentle giant whose quiet contributions helped shape the sound of generations.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.CLANCY MBIRIMI ; BASS GUITARIST EXTRAORDINAIRE : I have just learned that my Brother and Bassist Clancy Mbirimi has passed away. Vese vaiziva mukoma wangu vaimutarisa sezvandaiita. This is yet another devastating blow to Zimbabwe's music industry (following closely after the death of Kelly Rusike ; another Brother and great Bass Guitarist) and for me, represents the loss of a dear Brother and Friend. Clancy was one of
Zimbabwe's longest-serving musicians, having been a member of many iconic bands, including The Harare Mambos. He also worked as a music producer with different record labels. I met Clancy for the first time when I was 14 years old at a Music Festival held at Gwanzura Stadium where we both performed. On the same day I also met Jethro Shasha, Manu Kambani, Dave Ndoro and Chris Chabuka who would become life-long friends , my Tribe. The strongest tribes are not built on blood, but on the bonds of loyalty and love. Belonging to a tribe means finding a place where you can both give and receive strength. The leading Bands at that Festival were Dr Footswitch , Soul and Blues SABU, Gypsy Caravan and Groovy Union but the experience felt like One Family, One Tribe of Musicians. With his distinctive
vocal and Bass style - a unique combination of funk, groove, soul and pure technical skills - Clancy has been referred to as one of the most significant bass players in jazz, R &B, fusion and soul in Zimbabwean Music History. I don’t believe an accident of birth makes people sisters or brothers. It makes them siblings, gives them mutuality of parentage. Sisterhood and brotherhood is a condition people have to work at. Finding one's Family through Music is a powerful and lasting bond.
Clancy, our bond transcends time; in my heart, you’re never truly lost. To The Mbirimi Family, nematambudziko. I am extremely sorry for your loss. Take comfort in knowing you have so many beautiful memories to hold onto. Let them comfort you in the days ahead. May The Lord be with You 💔
