This past weekend, Chama Fumba better known as Pilato set aside his government title as Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts to step back into his first love: music. Pilato joined fellow artists and fans at the King Dandy Krazy tribute concert to honor his late brother in music, who passed away in a tragic road accident earlier this year.
Pilato’s appearance wasn’t in any official capacity but as an artist paying homage to Dandy Krazy, affectionately known as Bashi Toto. The event was already brimming with emotion, as artists and fans gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of the Copperbelt legend who helped shape Zambia’s music industry.
The atmosphere reached another level when Pilato took to the stage to perform his hit song Ichashishita. As soon as the opening notes rang out, the crowd erupted into cheers. The Permanent Secretary was transformed into the Pilato fans remembered a musician who connected with the people through his lyrics.
“Pi Piiiiilato, ichashishita, Icho, ichashishita, uyo, ichashishita, yeh Iyeh Iyeh,” he sang, as the crowd turned into a sea of waving hands, phone lights, and chanting voices.
The electrified audience sang along to every word, proving that Pilato’s music still resonates deeply with Zambians. For a moment, the polished suits and government office were forgotten; here was Pilato, the artist, reliving the magic of his craft.
Pilato’s simple attire underscored the heartfelt nature of his performance. This wasn’t just about music it was a personal moment for him to honor Dandy Krazy, a brother in the industry who had paved the way for many Zambian artists.
“This wasn’t just another performance,” one attendee noted. “You could see it was deeply personal for Pilato. He came to honor his brother and remind us of Dandy’s immense contribution to our music.”
The crowd’s enthusiastic reaction hinted that Pilato’s absence from the stage hasn’t diminished his connection with fans. The performance served as a poignant reminder of his roots and the enduring power of his music, which continues to resonate even as he serves the nation in a different capacity.
For one night, Pilato was more than a government official; he was an artist, a brother, and a voice of the people, paying tribute to a legend whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.