Zim artists mourn producer Joe Maseko

His brother Godfrey told local media that Joe had been ill for a month and was having chest pains.

“My brother wasn’t feeling too well for a month. He was complaining about chest pains and was feeling weak whenever he walked for a distance,” he said. “Two weeks ago, his condition deteriorated but he seemed to be improving. On Friday evening he started complaining of chest pains and we rushed him to Veronicare Clinic where he died. As a family, we’re devastated by his untimely death. He was a hard worker and had people at heart. We shall surely miss him.”

Social media was awash with condolence messages from fellow artists and fans.

“One of the greatest producers who helped in the growth of Achuzi is gone, but why Joe Maseko?” musician Achuzi wrote on Facebook. “I am still in shock and I still don’t believe why 2018 has taken so many people. Rest in peace soldier.”

Edith WeUtonga said: “It’s amazing how we take time for granted. I'm kicking myself for not making it to see you but always referring people to you. I'm heartbroken, thank you for the mentorship in between sessions way back in 2000."

“RIP Joe Maseko," said Jeys Marabini. "The music industry will never be the same.”

With a career of 21 years, Maseko is credited for producing music for most artists in Zambia and Botswana. Until his death, he was the Rising Sounds Studio executive producer, and had worked with Achuzi, Edith WeUtonga, Isaac Maleyi, Sandra Ndebele, Botswana music group Culture Spears and others.

In a 2015 interview, Maseko spoke about his plans as a musician. "I still want to do more in the music industry and right now my main aim is to do live recordings like drums," he said. "For now space is limiting me as my studio is in my house. However, that is not going to stop me from spreading my wings."