We mourn the passing of a legend of jazz, Spencer Mbadu

The Western Cape Government mourns the passing of Spencer Mbadu on 6 September 2023. Spencer was born in 1955 in Kensington and his family was later forcefully removed to Gugulethu. From the age of four he tried his hand at a number of musical instruments, guitar, voice, drums and piano before he chose the bass as an instrument of choice in 1972.

He never studied music formally, but cited Kader Khan as having introduced him to sight reading. That saw him join bands such as Siyabuya, Skyf, Spirits Rejoice and Fever, where he played music ranging from big band sounds to pop. He played with a number of notable musicians such as Abdullah Ibrahim, Bheki Mseleku, Sylvia Mdunyelwa, Ntemi Piliso, Tony Cedras, Russell Herman, Ezra Ngcukana, Enoch Mthalane and many more.

Minister Marais said: “Spencer Mbadu was a giant of a musician and bass guitar. He was a generous soul, always willing to pass on his knowledge to emerging bassists. He has influenced a generation of bass guitarists who followed in his footsteps. We will continue celebrating his legacy in the province.”

Our condolences go out to Spencer’s family, friends and all those who knew him and whose lives were touched by his music.