Tributes continue to pour in for the legendary Tshivenda traditional music group leader, Mr Mbulaheni Joseph Munyai (63), better known as MJ of the I Khou Bobodana Band, who passed away on 8 January at Donald Fraser Hospital.
Family spokesperson Apostle Mudavudavu Netshivhodza recalled that the I Khou Bobodana Band, based in Mahagala village in Halambani, was formed in 1984 by former group leader Nelson “Bonndo” Nemakwarani, together with MJ Munyai, Thifhelimbilu Munyai, Grace Nemakwarani, Bishop Muithivhi and Tshivhandekano Mathoma.
The group recorded their first single, Marevhulani Zwila Huna Mbamba, in 1986. Its popularity helped the band grow steadily, and they later recorded another single, Vho Tou Ntsemela Mme Anga, with Deal Task Music in Johannesburg.
“The band is also known for singing and recording Munwe na Munwe Kha Dzule Kha Tshitentsi Tshawe, the album that made the group popular. They were recognised and invited across the former Venda to perform, sing and dance,” Netshivhodza said.
In 1992, Bonndo Nemakwarani died in a car accident, and his younger brother, MJ Munyai, took over leadership of the band. In 2018, the I Khou Bobodana Band was honoured with an award at the Tshivenda Music Awards (TSHIMA).
Munyai leaves behind two wives, Joyce Munyai and Luambo Munyai, and ten children. Luambo, Netshivhodza said, is expected to lead the group, adding that the band will continue its legacy.
Munyai will be buried in his home village’s graveyard at Mahagala-Dzumbathoho in Halambani on Friday, 16 January, starting at 06:00, with memorial services scheduled for Thursday, 15 January, from 13:00.