John De’Mathew passed away last night after a tragic car accident claimed his life.
According to a report on Capital News, the accident occurred on Sunday night at a black spot near Blue Post hotel. Gatanga Member of Parliament Nduati Ngugi said the musician died on the spot, after ramming a truck and his body was taken to Thika Nursing Home and later transferred to Kenyatta University mortuary. He was heading home after attending a fundraiser for fellow musician Peter Kagia’s ailing child, a close family member said.
And as the news of his passing spread like wildfire, De’Mathew fans took to social media to remember the ‘Njata Yakwa’ crooner. One tweep shared that he saw the legend perform at Tracc Palace, where he gave a lively show for his fans in attendance on Saturday(17.08.2019) night. Sadly, it would be the last time De’Mathew would perform for the public.
Just Yesterday night At Our Local John DeMathew performed for us We didn't know it was his Last time Gone Too Soon… 😪😪😪 #RIPDemathew pic.twitter.com/lQ2eg9kBR7
— Andy (@AndyUtd_) August 18, 2019
Some public figures also took to Twitter to share their condolences with the family. Starehe Member of Parliament and musician also gave a moving tribute. Jaguar wrote, ” While growing up, I listened a lot to John De’Mathew. His music inspired me greatly to become the musician I am today.”
While growing up, I listened a lot to John DeMathew. His music inspired me greatly to become the musician I am today.
I am Deeply saddened by his untimely demise following a tragic road accident today.. May His soul rest well in eternal peace. #ripDeMathew pic.twitter.com/hMATsptSLN— Hon. Jaguar (@RealJaguarKenya) August 18, 2019
Dennis Itumbi, Secretary of Innovation, Digital and Diaspora Communication in the Office of the President described the ‘Aragia Ma’ singer as “very poetic music and a prophetic musician too.”
Oh My! The man who gave us, Niwe Njata Yakwa, You are my star – very poetic music and a prophetic musician too. Go well bro. #RIPDemathew pic.twitter.com/VslvcgEcIO
— Dennis Itumbi, HSC (@OleItumbi) August 19, 2019
Some fans have shared video tributes and celebrated the power of De’Mathew to have some of Women’s Rep Sabina Chege make a cameo on his video.
Njata Yakwa by the late Kikuyu benga musician John DeMathew where Murang’a County Woman Representative Hon. Sabina Chege appeared as a video vixen was a hit, is still a hit and it will always remain a hit forever. #RIPJohnDeMathew #RIPDemathew pic.twitter.com/Q9UHe24M8L
— Shiko❣️ (@ThisIsShiko) August 19, 2019
I have always loved "Njata Yakwa" by John DeMathew, a song in which Murang’a County Woman Representative Hon. Sabina Chege acted as John DeMathew's wife. You will be missed legend. #RIPDeMathew pic.twitter.com/NLubNlDDx3
— Embakasi Finest 🇰🇪🐐 (@ThisIsMboya) August 18, 2019
John De’Mathew had great star power, that will continue on.