Marco Joseph of Zabron Singers Passes Away from Heart Attack, Family Confirms

Singer Marco Joseph from the Zabron Singers has passed away. The 40-something-year-old died on August 21, 2024, from a heart condition while being treated at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) at Muhimbili National Hospital.

In a phone interview with Nairobi News, Marco’s sister, Victoria Zabron, shared that he began feeling unwell a week prior to a performance in Kisumu. “He had to remain behind for treatment. The doctors discovered his heart was in poor condition and he needed emergency surgery. He was receiving heart treatment at Muhimbili Hospital last night, but unfortunately, he did not survive. The funeral will take place at his aunt’s house in Mikocheni. The body is currently at the mortuary,” Victoria said.

Japeh Zabron, Chairman of the Zabron Singers Choir, reported that Marco suffered a heart attack while on a mission trip to Kenya a few days ago. He was initially treated at Bugando Referral Hospital before being transferred to JKCI, where he passed away.

Marco was renowned for his contributions to the group, including popular songs such as “Mkono Wake Bwana,” “Swetie Sweetie,” “Sisi Ndio Wale,” “Uko Single,” and “Nakutuma Wimbo.”

Younger brother Japhet Zabron also mourned Marco’s loss, posting a tribute online. “I’m deeply saddened, but I trust that God is in control. This is such a tragic loss.”

The Zabron Singers initially gained fame with their hit song “Mkono Wa Bwana” and have continued to captivate fans with numerous other tracks. The group also includes Victoria Zabron, Jamila Dotto, Samuel Joseph, Semroza Godfrey, Grace Madata, and Joyce Zabron.

In a previous conversation, Japhet recounted the group’s early struggles: “When we were in high school, we recorded a song at a studio, borrowing money to pay for the session. The recording quality was poor, and we were almost embarrassed to release it. We nearly gave up.”