Deceased Benga artist Eric Omondi popularly known as Omondi Long'Lilo leaves behind music that will soothe his fans for many years to come.
Omondi who passed away on Tuesday, June 16, at Bondo Sub-county hospital is regarded as one of the greatest Luo hitmakers.
The popular artist attributed his breakthrough to Osito Kalle, another legendary icon who has enjoyed a career spanning to over four decades.
The duo was part of a Nabi Kings Band which also included hitmakers such as Odhiambo Tusker, Aluoch Pamba, Atommy Sifa and Ogina Koko who later joined Royal Media's Ramogi FM as a presenter.
Omondi's star rose when the band broke up in 2007 and he decided to nurture his solo career, composing hit songs “Goretti”, “Okoth Pilot” and “Kong’o Shida” which have rocked the airwaves for over 10 years.
“Kon'go Shida” (alcohol is dangerous) is his most popular. Other songs include Goretti Awino, Were wuod Ogalo, Okoth Mang’ang’a, Anita Nyausonga and Thomas Mwaya.
To honour his mentor, Omondi composed a song dubbed Jopuonj, to appreciate efforts being made by teachers in disseminating knowledge.
He also formed his own band the Migwena Kings band which played at events and clubs.
The musician reportedly succumbed to cancer after struggling with the disease for years. His wife was by his side all along since being put on a life-support machine to death.
"He is gone and we only pray that the almighty God blesses his soul as we thank everyone who stood with the family when the artiste was ailing," Olima Gondi, his neighbour eulogised.
Omondi has passed on a few days after another popular Ohangla artiste, Abenny Jachiga, was laid to rest. Jachiga is said to have died after a short illness at St Jairus Hospital in Kisumu.
He was buried at night by the police in an incident that sparked uproar among the Luo community.
