Them Mushrooms is a legendary Kenyan band and a major cultural institution in East Africa, with a career spanning over five decades since their founding in 1969 as "Avenida Success" by the Harrison brothers—Teddy Kalanda, Billy Sarro, George Zirro, John Katana, and Pius Plato Chitianda "Jibaba." The group, which later included a fifth brother, Dennis Kalume, adopted the name Them Mushrooms in 1972. They are celebrated for pioneering a vibrant fusion of musical styles, including traditional Kenyan Chakacha and Benga, alongside reggae, Taarab, and later incorporating contemporary rap and hip-hop influences. Their global fame was cemented by the 1982 Swahili anthem, "Jambo Bwana" (Hello, Mister), penned by Teddy Kalanda, which introduced the iconic "Hakuna Matata" refrain to the world. Having started on the beach hotel circuit of Mombasa, the band later moved their headquarters to Nairobi and has toured internationally, enduring changes in lineup and even a brief rebranding as "Uyoga" in 2002. Their lasting contribution to Kenyan music has earned them honors, including the Head of State Commendation for bandleader John Katana in 2009.