Family, friends and the entire Namibian music community are preparing to lay to rest crooner and legend Richard Meyer, who died in Windhoek last week at the age of 72.

Born in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, on 14 August 1954, Richard Meyer was part of a family of eight siblings.

Music was his biggest driving force. In his 20s, as a young guitarist, the late Meyer arrived in then South West Africa and joined the well-known Purple Haze band.

He would become a household name, and his name went up in lights when he was crowned the overall winner of the then South West African Broadcasting Corporation's (SWABC) Music Makers competition.

Music would always call him, and he was a regular at functions, weddings and other public events.

Locals compared him to American R&B singer Luther Vandross. His legacy in music continued with the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC).

He also performed at the National Theatre of Namibia (NTN) and the local music programme, Local Band Stand, hosted by the late veteran broadcaster Lindsay Scott.

The NTN, in its message of condolence, says Meyer will be remembered for his distinctive voice and the joy he brought to audiences over many years.

The late Meyer would always be fondly remembered, especially for his expressions after performances. One of them would be "Ons was warm, kook warm", which translated in English means "We were hot, red hot."

The late crooner is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Friday evening at seven o'clock at the United Reformed Church in Khomasdal and will be buried on Saturday with the funeral service starting in the same church at 09h00.