On this day in music history: 3 July
Today's dose of music history celebrates Thomas Mapfumo, The Lion of Zimbabwe.
3 July 1945: Thomas Mapfumo was born in Marondera, Zimbabwe. He is a musician nicknamed "The Lion of Zimbabwe" and "Mukanya" for his immense popularity and the political influence he wields through his music, including his sharp criticism of the government of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe.
Mapfumo both created and made popular Chimurenga music.
Previous doses of music history for 3 July:
1943: Judith Durham, The Seekers, was born in Melbourne, Australia.
1982: The Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me” went to number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything. ~ Plato