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KWAITO singer Mduduzi Tshabalala, also known as Mandoza, has died at the age of 38.
The musician, who had a brain tumour, died around midday yesterday after being taken to hospital in the morning.
The star produced multi-platinum hits like Nkalakatha, Godoba and Sgelekeqe, and collaborated with Danny K on Same Difference.
Fans last saw Mandoza on stage performing at the ‘Thank You SABC’ concert which took place last weekend.
In Zimbabwe, Mandoza was last in the country in 2010 when he performed at Old Miltonians Sports Club in Bulawayo which was called Ivy League.
“He was a fun loving person and the last time I saw him was about three years ago at Oskido’s birthday party. Mandoza influenced a lot of kwaito artistes in the city such as Mjoks, of the Street Niggaz fame,’ said socialite Babongile Sikhonjwa.
Fans and industry colleagues have sent their tributes expressing their sadness following the death of the kwaito legend.
Several people, including fans, celebrities and politicians, have taken to social media to send their tributes and on Twitter the hash tag #RIPMandoza was trending.
Singer Danny K posted on Twitter: “Devastated! Sad sad day for all South Africans. My friend and music legend is gone. My deepest condolences to Mpho and the family #Mandoza.”
Rapper Cassper Nyovest also posted his sadness on Twitter.
“Damn man!!! Mandoza left us??? Argh no man!!! This life thing is sooo short. #RIP to the legend!!!.”
Television beauty Minnie Dlamini said she was heartbroken.
“Nkalakatha will be on repeat on #HeritageDay for me, it bridged racial barriers and truly United our country. Deeply saddened #RIPMandoza.”
South Africa Sport and Recreation Minister Fikile Mbalula also shared his condolences.
“RIP to Mandoza – a life cut short but well lived”.
Mandoza started his career with Chiskop, a kwaito group formed with three of his childhood friends.
He participated in the kwaito documentary SHARP! SHARP! – the kwaito story, directed by Aryan Kaganof and the 2006 rugby drama, Number 10 – Showbiz Reporter/Online.
Online Reporter