The news of the demise of Nigeria’s legendary reggae musician, Ras Kimono was received on Sunday morning with deep sorrow. The ‘Rhumba Stylee’ star was reportedly taken to the hospital in Lagos on Friday and was confirmed dead on Sunday morning.
Ras Kimono was on his way to the United States on Friday when he, at the point of check-in at the airport, requested to be taken to the hospital after feeling unwell. He was administered with oxygen at the Lagoon Hospital where he later died early on Sunday morning.
Ras Kimono’s music dominated the industry in the 90s when he released the popular reggae music ‘Under Pressure’.
Shock waves reverberated among Nigerians all over the world, especially within the entertainment practitioners in the UK as many took to twitter and Facebook to express the deep loss to the music industry.
Film Producer Rhoda Wilson on her twitter handle said, “Good bye Ras Kimono. It was a great journey. Please play sweet music in heaven. May Your Soul Rest In Peace.”
Prince Tade Olusile on his Facebook timeline in a poetic manner said, “R.I.P. Ras Kimono.
Even after your life is gone, in our hearts your love lingers on. Even after you have left our sight.
In our thoughts, your light shines bright. Even after you are gone, in our memories you forever live on Ras Kimono.”
Chief Ayo Dapo Oyebade also on his Facebook said, “I’m in shock! #RasKimono was one of our special guests at the premiere of Shameful Deceit. Rest in peace. God bless and comfort your family and loved ones.”
Retty Susie on her Facebook also said, “My darl Bros Ras Kimono why did you have to exit so early. What of Efe? What of your little daughter. You only spent 5 years with her. Just a few weeks ago you guys were a picture of happiness and Joy before my very eyes. Why? I love you like the brother I never had. It hurts that you exited so early. Too early. Way too soon. It pains me I cannot find any of our videos from few weeks ago. I saw you last on the 24th of March and we had fun. I thank God for that last moment of laughter with you.”
Dayo Olomu said “I am shocked and speechless. Ras Kimono takes his final bow, a month after his 60th birthday and 35 years on stage anniversary. I was privileged to be responsible for promoting his second album “Under Pressure” when I was the Promotions Manager of Premier Music at 26 years old. Rest in peace, Ras Kimono. You are no longer under pressure. You are now with the Most High.”
Abass Tijani a.k.a DJ ABASS was shocked and short of words. He simply said, Rest in Peace Ras Kimono. You will be missed.”
Veteran actress Golda John Abiola who has known Kimono for over 30 years said, “This is a very sudden and sad news to my entire family, my twins were in the musical video to promote his first award winning song ‘Under Pressure’. We have lost a musical legend. I last saw Kimono in Minnesota, USA when he was on a visit to his family. May his gentle soul through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace.”
Ras Kimono, real name Ukeleke Onwubuya who recently turned 60 was born on 9th May in Delta State Nigeria.
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