The 27’s – Lily Tembo 1981 - 2009

This is the last article in a series on “The 27’s” – notable musicians who have passed away in their 27^th year.

Lily Tembo was born in Kabwe, Zambia, and was raised in a music-loving family. Professionally known as Lily T, she was a Zambian musician, radio presenter, journalist and charity worker who had won national acclaim with her 2004 debut album Lily T.  She released her second album in 2006 and was working on a third at time of her death.

Aside from singing, she was known for presenting on the 5th FM Radio network in Zambia, working as a journalist and involvement in charity work.  Lily had been involved in raising malaria awareness in Zambia. In April 2009, she led worshippers at a world malaria day commemoration in Lusaka.

After complaining over "minor stomach pains" and suffering severe gastritis, Tembo died around 6:30 PM, September 14, 2009. Tembo's sister Patience told the press "She had gastritis, she fell sick on Saturday… she was vomiting a lot and developed anaemia. On Monday around 19:00 hours, she died." Her death was unexpected as she had no previous signs of illness and had been chatting with fans on Facebook on September 11.