Fadhili William Mdawida (1938–2001) stands as one of Kenya’s most treasured musical legends and a defining voice of East Africa’s golden era of classics, known today as Zilizopendwa. He is most celebrated as the first artist to professionally record the timeless ballad “Malaika”—a song that has since become one of Africa’s most beloved compositions and an enduring cultural masterpiece. With his emotive voice, poetic storytelling, and deep connection to Kenyan tradition, Fadhili William’s influence continues to resonate across generations.