Celebrated Gospel Singer Shari Martin Dies, Kenyans Mourn Him

Photo: Courtesy

The music industry is grieving the passing of legendary gospel singer Shari Martin, whose death was announced on social media on Monday, August 5.

Who is Shari Martin?

Martin was renowned for his timeless gospel hits such as Yesu Ndio Commando, Rafiki Pesa, Happy New Year, and Tangazo la Ajabu.

Douglas Papjivs Jiveti shared the heartbreaking news on his Facebook page, writing:

“Pioneer gospel musician Shari Martin has sadly passed on. Such a gifted man. May God rest his soul in eternal peace.”

Jiveti revealed that Martin had been ill and hospitalized for approximately a week at Kenyatta National Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his illness.

Fans send condolences to Shari Martin’s family

Fans inundated Jiveti’s post with messages of condolence, reflecting on Martin’s profound impact on gospel music and expressing their sorrow.

Jerry Mopondo wrote, “We will surely miss him. He electrified gospel music in Kenya when he was still a student at Utalii College. Till we meet again.”

Moses Manoah commented, “Christmas, Christmas, everybody sings—remember that song? It’s so painful, but in the Lord, we rest. Rest in peace.”

Naftal Obuya shared, “Shocking. He was a great inspiration to us. May the Lord protect the family. He was an enigma.”

James Odinga remarked, “This passing of servants of God in this decade urges us to equip ourselves and do our best to finish our course. We are living on borrowed time, and we’ve got to work while it’s still day.”

Luap Iyasi expressed, “It is indeed sad! What happened? Such a talent and a great asset in the Lord’s Vineyard.”