Imphal: Ringkhuanlung John Mpamei, a well-known artist from the Rongmei Naga community in Manipur, passed away in Guwahati on Sunday morning.
A resident of Inrianglong village in Tamenglong district, Mpamei was working as a music teacher at Birla International School in Doha, Qatar.
In a condolence letter issued by the Rongmei Naga Students’ Organisation (RNSO), Guwahati, it was stated that Mpamei passed away at around 6:45 am at Health City Hospital, Guwahati. He had been undergoing treatment following a BP stroke while returning from Doha for a family vacation in India.
He is survived by his wife and two young daughters.
According to the RNSO, Mpamei was not only a beloved member of the community but also a distinguished artist who made a remarkable mark in the field of music.
“As a gifted singer, songwriter and performer, he carried the voice of the Rongmei people to national and international platforms. Through his albums, live performances and heartfelt lyrics, he inspired countless young people and brought pride to the Northeast. His passion for music was matched only by his humility and dedication to uplifting others. His passing is an irreparable loss not only to his family but to the entire Rongmei community and the music fraternity,” the organisation stated.
Meanwhile, expressing shock and profound sadness over the young musician’s demise, Hill Areas Committee (HAC) Chairman Dinganglung Gangmei said Mpamei was a celebrated songwriter, singer and musician who brought pride to the Zeliangrong community through his exceptional artistry, both at home and abroad.
“Hailing from humble beginnings, Mpamei’s remarkable journey took him abroad, where he shared his passion for music as a dedicated teacher,” the HAC chairman said, while extending condolences to the bereaved family.
“May John’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may God comfort his family during this difficult time, granting them strength and solace in cherished memories of his life and legacy,” he added.
John Mpamei & the Band were among the Top 26 Bands in India listed by Sennheiser in 2017. He released more than five official music videos on national and international radio and TV channels, including Vh1, MTV and 9XO. Mpamei performed across India, Nepal, Doha (Qatar), the UAE and the Maldives, among other countries.
He released two albums – Far Away (2014) and Illuminate (2018). His song Telegraph from the album Illuminate was nominated for Best Song at the Radio City Freedom Awards in 2018.
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