Zimbabwe: Afro-Jazz icon ‘The Headmaster’, Bob Nyabinde passed away on Saturday, December 24, 2023.
The legendary artist had been suffering from diabetes for a long time and was admitted at Parirenyatwa Hospital, in the evening on Saturday, where he took his last breath and died at the age of sixty-eight.
Popularly known for his hit song ‘Pane Nyaya’, the singer retired early from his career after becoming partially blind due to the disease. The sad passing of the veteran musician was confirmed by his son Albert Nyabinde.
He said that the condition of Bob Nyabinde deteriorated after which the family decided to take him to the hospital but unfortunately, he did not survive. He mentioned that they have lost a loving father and pillar of strength.
He added, “I know the whole nation feels the pain due to the nature of his job, but as a family we are in grief as we had that direct connection with him.”
Bob Nyabinde began his musical career as a tutor in Redcliff, which earned him the popular title name ‘The Headmaster’. Later, he quit teaching and decided to pursue music as a full-time profession.
There was no looking back, after that he produced back-to-back hits such as Pane Nyaya, Chabuda Hapana, Zvinoita Hope and many more.
He also launched and taught a lot of other renowned artists including sensational TerryBliss and his sons Agga and Albert.
The legendary performer will be buried at Kwekwe Central Cemetery on Tuesday, December 24, 2023. Before the burial, the mourners will gather at 814 Cannan Highfields in Harare where church service will be held on Monday.
Many of his fans responded and expressed themselves:
A fan Timy Andrew Maposa, who eventually came out to be his student wrote, “He was my grade three class teacher at RJ Davies Primary School in Redcliff, may your dear soul rest in eternal peace Sir”
Another fan Tafara Chaibva presented his condolences, “Rest in peace Bob the Headmaster Nyabinde”
Tirivangani Marumbei commented, “Rest in peace Headmaster, great musician and teacher”
Musician’s another student, Chiedza Murwira Chasara wrote, “My Grade seven teacher. Rest in peace my mentor.”
The Afro-Jazz idol served the listeners with his greatest musical pieces. May his soul rest in peace.