Yesterday we got the heartbreaking news that Michael Mugo of Just Imagine Africa had died on Sunday, September 17. The news hit so many fans of the group as most of them started sharing who he was.

His popular tracks started coming out with the streaming numbers going up and his content getting shared by more people. This is our culture as fans. We do not appreciate someone until they are gone from us.

But why do we do this as fans? Why do we start checking out dead artists’ works but cannot do the same when they are alive?

The death of an artist is often met with profound grief, both by their loved ones and their legions of fans. In the digital age, this mourning process has taken a unique form: an outpouring of streams, downloads, and social media tributes. While the phenomenon may seem perplexing, there are several compelling reasons why fans stream more content from an artist when they pass away.

1. Nostalgia and Tribute

When an artist dies, fans often turn to their music as a way to pay tribute and relive the emotions and memories associated with that artist’s work. Music has the power to transport us back to specific moments in our lives, and the songs created by a beloved artist become a part of the soundtrack to those memories. Streaming their music allows fans to reconnect with those cherished moments and the artist’s impact on their lives.

2. Posthumous Releases

In some cases, artists leave behind unreleased or unfinished work, which is often made available to the public after their passing. These posthumous releases become a source of excitement for fans who are eager to hear new material from their favorite artist. The anticipation and curiosity surrounding these releases drive increased streaming activity as fans seek to experience the artist’s final creative endeavors.

3. Cultural Relevance

The death of an artist often sparks renewed interest in their work, not only among existing fans but also among those who may not have been familiar with their music before. The artist’s passing becomes a cultural moment, leading to media coverage, tributes, and discussions that draw new listeners into their musical catalog. This surge in curiosity and interest results in higher streaming numbers as a broader audience discovers the artist’s music.

4. Emotional Connection

Music has a unique ability to elicit deep emotions and provide comfort during difficult times. When an artist dies, fans may find solace in the artist’s songs, which can help them process their grief and emotions. Streaming this music becomes a way to connect with the artist and feel a sense of closeness, even after their passing.

5. Communal Mourning

The act of streaming an artist’s music after their death can be a way for fans to join in a communal mourning process. Fans come together on social media platforms, at memorial gatherings, and through online fan communities to share their thoughts and memories. Streaming the artist’s music becomes a collective gesture of remembrance and a way to honor their legacy.

6. Supporting the Artist’s Estate

Many fans feel a strong desire to support the artist’s family and estate after their death. Streaming their music can contribute to the financial well-being of the artist’s loved ones, helping to preserve their legacy and support any ongoing projects or charitable endeavors associated with the artist.

7. Creating a Lasting Legacy

Fans understand that streaming an artist’s music after their death helps ensure their lasting legacy. By contributing to the continued popularity of the artist’s work, fans play a role in preserving their impact on the music industry and culture as a whole. This sense of responsibility motivates fans to stream more content from the artist.