Ali Khamis, alias Ally B, was a popular musician known for his hit song Maria. The coast-based singer was popular among various people in the region and the news of his untimely demise on November 1st sent shock and grief among those who knew him.
He was known as a patriotic Kenyan who emphasized on peace even composed a song to express his love for the country.
Here is his story as told by WoK.
Background and Family
He was born on 12th March 1986 to Mr. and Mrs. Mwakaribu Khamis. He enjoyed a close relationship with his brother Mohammed Ramadhan.
Not much is known about his wife or children. However, he is a father to Swaleh Said, a rising music star known as City Boy Bawazir.
The two had a rocky relationship with the son revealing on radio his father wanted to sabotage his music career.
In response, Ally B believed his son was using his fame to gain attention and was being wrongly advised. He also expressed the desire to sort out their issues.
Speaking to Barakafm in 2018, Bawazir said of his father,
“One early morning you wake up to a message that reads ‘hallo son lets meet at Tempos studio we work on a collabo I have already done my vocals just waiting for you to do your part. From your lovely dad Ally B’ would you go?” posed Captain Lui to Bawazir
“No! I would not go. Let me just be open here. In my life all the struggles I have faced in this music industry is because of Ally B. He has created bad blood between me and important people in my life…,” he stated.
Music Career
Ali began writing and singing songs at a young age. His music gained traction among a lot of people, especially those living in the Coastal region. Some of his well-known songs included:
- Maria
- Silali which featured Size 8
- Ni Wangu featuring Nyota Ndogo.
- Kadzo
- Bembea
- Ziki la Nazi
- Naona Raha
- Nisamehe
- Ni Beep
- Mkufu Wangu
- How Bout Now
- Mtoto wa Yatima
- Stone Cold
- Zungusha
- Unwawezacheza
- Twendeni
- Zegedee
- Hanifa
- Mikono Juu
- Yelele Yelele
- Demu Wangu
- Naipenda Kenya
- Nalia
- Anacheza kwa Mapozi
- Bomboribo
One of his latest releases was a love ballad named Take you Home.
Politics
The singer tried his hand at politics during the 2017 general elections. He vied for the Junda ward, kisauni county assembly seat under the Jubilee party ticket. He lost to ODM’s Raphael Bwire.
Death
The Coastal musician passed away at the Makadara Hospital in Mombasa where he had been taken after feeling unwell. It is reported that he died due to high blood pressure.
Apart from fans, several high profile individuals, such as, speaker of the Senate Amason Kingi and president William Ruto sent out their condolences.
“I join the music fraternity in mourning the passing of Ally B, a musician who harnessed his talent to foster unity and harmony in our society,” Hon. Ruto said.
“Ali Khamisi Mwanguli inscribed his message of peace deep within our hearts, and we will forever carry that meaningful tune. May God provide solace to his family, friends and devoted fans.”
News report also indicates that the president contributed Sh500,000 to the family in order to help with funeral arrangements.
