Tinotenda Hove – Renowned Zimbabwean drummer Sam Chagumachinyi has died in the United Kingdom after a short battle with cancer. He passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Bedfordshire, just a month after being diagnosed.

The news was confirmed by veteran Zimbabwean producer and musician Clive Mono Mukundu, who issued a statement on Thursday.

“He passed away from cancer on Saturday, July 5, 2025. The family is currently processing repatriation papers in order to bring his body home for burial in Mutare. The process is expected to take between two and three weeks,” said Mukundu.

He also appealed for financial assistance to help cover the cost of repatriation.

“The family is asking for donations to cover the financial shortfall. Those willing to help can contact his brother Lawrence Chagumachinyi at +263775423423.”

Chagumachinyi was widely respected for his drumming prowess, having played for celebrated acts such as Too Open, Chiwoniso Maraire, Willom Tight and Dino Mudondo, and Busi Ncube. He remained in the UK after a 2000 tour with Busi and went on to build a vibrant musical life there.

He pursued academic studies in music, earning a Master of Arts from the Institute of Performing Arts UK and a BA Honours in Music Technology from the University of Bedfordshire. He later settled in Bedford, where he operated a home studio and collaborated with fellow Zimbabwean artists in the diaspora, including Nagug and Tsungai Tsikirai.

His death has left a deep void in Zimbabwe’s music community, with many remembering him as a humble and gifted drummer whose work transcended borders.