Lucius Banda

Lucius Banda, known as “Soldier”, was a Malawian reggae singer, producer and politician. He was born on 17 August 1970 in Sosola Village in Balaka District and first went on stage in 1985 with the Alleluya Band, led by his brother Paul Banda.

His debut album Son of a Poor Man made him a star, and in 1997 he formed his own band, Zembani, to give younger Malawian musicians a start. His protest songs were often banned or censored, including 15-15 – My Song in 2010. He released about 20 albums, the last being LOVE & HATE in 2022.

He served as member of Parliament for Balaka North until 2006. He died on 30 June 2024 after years of kidney illness.