THEM MUSHROOMS BAND LEADER TED KALANDA DIES AT 72

The co-founder of the legendary band Them Mushrooms, Ted Kalanda Harrison, has died at the age of 72. 

Kalanda, who had been battling cancer since 2018, passed away at his home in Kaloleni, Kilifi County. John Katana, Kalanda’s younger brother and current leader of Them Mushrooms, confirmed the sad news on Tuesday. “It has been a long painful journey for our eldest brother, who was a pillar of strength and inspiration to all of us,” Katana shared.

Ted Kalanda was born into a musically gifted family and made an indelible mark on the industry when he co-founded Them Mushrooms in 1972. Kalanda, along with his brothers George Zirro (deceased) and John Katana, as well as Billy Sarro and Denis Kalume, formed the original lineup of the group. Over the years, the band underwent changes, but its familial essence remained intact, with Katana and Sarro continuing the musical journey. 

In the late 1980s, Them Mushrooms relocated to Nairobi, where they solidified their place in Kenya’s music scene, particularly with the release of their iconic album At the Carnivore. Their extensive catalog features enduring hits such as Embe Dodo Dodo, Unkula Huu, Wazee Wakatike, Nyambura, Ndogo Ndogo, and Hapo Kale. 

In 2002, the band briefly rebranded as Uyoga Band, but soon reverted to their original name.