Last night it was announced that multi-award-winning musician, MC Skibadee, passed away. The announcement was made by his family, who as of yet have not disclosed any details on the cause of death. Skibadee, otherwise known as Alphonso Bondzie, started his illustrious career in 1993 on City Sound Radio, and by the end of 1995 had worked himself up to resident all of Kool FM. More recently, his contributions to Drum’n’Bass group SASASAS have taken him to lofty new highs in the D’n’B scene; winning best MC at high-profile awards show every year from 2006-2010. Now, tributes from over the industry have begun to pour in.
Bondzie’s family made a statement on Sunday, with the MC’s eldest saying: “Hello everyone, as Alphonso’s first-born, I unfortunately come with some with sad news to say that Skibadee has passed away. As a family we ask for some privacy, but may he rest in peace.” It was also confirmed on Skibadee’s Facebook page by his firstborn, that Bondzie died aged 47, not 54 as has been stated in some places. “I’d like to thank everyone for all the love and messages I have received today I am extremely heartbroken with this sad news and still in shock.”
Among the many tributes paid online, former So Solid Crew member Lisa Maffia shared a post on Twitter saying, “Not too sure what to say! Another pioneer gone! My heart goes out to your beautiful daughters, family and friends. DnB finest @therealskibagram I’m sorry to hear this news. Rest well sir #skiba #RIP.” While Bournemouth based Dubstep DJ FuntCase says, “I can’t believe we’ve lost another legend. Skibadee is a name in DnB even the people who barely knew DnB knew of. I first heard this dude on a vinyl I bought way back with simon bassline smith from 2005 called Big Tingz and I could never stop playing it in my sets.”
DJ Flight, who in the scene has been championed for her attempts to have women be better represented in the industry, succinctly sums up the shock that came from the news, “f***ing hell. I didn’t want to believe it but seems an official post went up on his fb again.. RIP Skibadee, an icon of Jungle D&B who inspired countless MCs in many genres. really awful news, love & condolences to his family & close friends.”
Skibadee was making music right until the very end, his last release, ‘Finally’, with SASASAS, Zdot, DJ Phantasy came out only 10 days ago. You can listen to the song below.
