August 18 was a bittersweet day for lovers of Mugithi music across Kenya, as the date marked seven years since the genre lost one of its most beloved voices. Njugush honoured John DeMathew on his 7th death anniversary. John DeMathew, the iconic Kikuyu Benga singer widely celebrated for his distinctive style and catalogue of beloved songs, died after a road accident along Thika Road. He was returning to Nairobi from a fundraiser when the crash occurred. He left behind two wives, Sarafina and Carolyne, as well as several children. How did Njugush honour DeMathew Known for his humour-laced skits, Njugush took a slightly different approach this time, crafting a video that felt more like a heartfelt homage than a typical comedy clip. In the video, Njugush donned a fedora hat, the very style that John had become synonymous with during his career. He went further to recreate the visual feel of a classic Mugithi music video, complete with dancers performing in maize farms and energetic scene transitions that fans of the genre will immediately recognise. Alongside the video, Njugush wrote: “Seven years later, he still rules the airwaves. R.I.P De Mathew.
The catalogue ya Huyu Legend is crazy !!! seiyaa.” Watch the video below: Fans react The post resonated deeply with followers, many of whom took to the comments section to share memories and reflect on the void the singer left behind in the local music scene. Here are some of the comments shared: Angeline Nyambura: “You’ve done this song a lot of Justice 😊” Dan Kariuki: “Out of nowhere 🤣 ❤️ this bro” Faith Munyi: “DNA test loading” Ann Wairimu: “Legend reincarnated” Judy Kariuki: “The accuracy even on video quality 😅😁😁” Maina Gichohi: “Perfect.” Judy Wanjiru: “I remember I got a notification of his passing and brushed it off, thinking ni Hawa watu huua watu wakiwa hai, only to find it” The tribute served as a reminder of just how deeply John’s music had woven itself into Kenyan culture, with songs that continue to play on airwaves and at social gatherings years after his passing. How did Carolyne DeMathew honour John? TUKO.co.ke also highlighted facts about Carolyne’s heartfelt tribute on social media as she marked the seventh death anniversary of her late husband. The anniversary has rekindled emotional memories for fans, reminding them of the tragic day when news broke of his sudden death in a road accident that left the music world in shock.
