I first met Benny in the mid 50’s when he was holidaying in Nairobi with his brother Philip at the Johnstone’s family home who were my neighbours. We quickly struck up a friendship whilst on his vacation and for the duration of his trip we hung out. 

Due to distance, we lost contact until the early 60’s when I started visiting Mombasa regularly for soccer tournaments. We resumed our friendship again, keeping in contact. 

We both at that time were in bands, Benny, in The Shiftas and I, in The Scorpions. Our love of music and both playing in bands were great topics of conversation. I formed good friendships with The Shiftas and was also lucky to be introduced to Cecilia in 1966. 

Benny was a good listener, a kind man and had a great sense of humour. He was talented on the guitar, a perfectionist i’d say and he was a Shadow’s man through and through. 

Rest in peace Benny

Luis Gracias