Billy Kaunda set Waka waka ablaze 31 October 

Malawi Exclusive 

Music icon Billy Kaunda who is a Malawian music legend and politician whose career has spanned almost three decades has organized summer music show destined to take place at Waka saka Hotel.

Born and raised in Blantyre, he began singing in the Baptist Church choir before moving to Balaka in 1997 to join Lucius Banda’s Zembani Band.

It was Lucius Banda himself who helped him to build his music career , and his debut album in that same year made him an instant star, winning him Musician of the Year in the late 1990s Entertainers of the Year program.

He later formed his own Armagedon Band and became known as the voice of the poor, singing about social injustice and everyday struggles in songs that still echo in every minibus and market.

Beyond music, Kaunda made history in politics. He served as Member of Parliament for two different constituencies, Blantyre from 2004 to 2009 and Mzimba District from 2009 to 2014, becoming one of the youngest people to ever hold a Deputy Ministerial position when he was appointed Deputy Minister of Youth Development and Sports under President Bingu wa Mutharika.

He contested on an independent ticket and later documented his turbulent journey in his 2020 autobiography Hills and Valleys, which details the political persecution he faced after releasing his critical 2002 album.

What sets Billy Kaunda apart is not just longevity but depth. His music is reggae-rooted local sound that carries messages of resilience, faith and accountability. While new artists come and go, his authenticity has never faded, which is why he is regarded as a bridge between Malawi’s musical past and present and a true custodian of Malawian culture.

He is set to bring that legacy to Waka Waka Hotel on 31st October 2026 for the Summer Concert.

Albums include: Mwapindulanji (1997), Alibe Mau (1999), Muyime Kaye (2000), Dandaulo Limveke (2001), Mwataya Chipangano – Agalatia (2002/2014), Hymns (2020), Mukaika Kodi (2024), Kubabulo (2024), Tigonjerane (2024), Mau Angawa (2024), Ndine Yemwe Uja (2024), Alibe Mau (2024), Kapolo Wa Moyo (2025), Muzandikumbukire (2025), plus singles Ukhale Tcheru (2025) and Vuto Ndinu (2026).