The South African music industry is in mourning following the death of Kwaito icon Mapaputsi. The artist, whose real name was Sandile Ngwenya, passed away on Thursday night, leaving fans and fellow musicians devastated. His manager, Busi Kunene, confirmed the sad news, stating that Mapaputsi had succumbed to his long-term illness.
“We are heartbroken to announce that Mapaputsi has passed on. We will be issuing a press statement and hosting a media briefing in due course,” Busi Kunene told TshisaLIVE. This statement has been a difficult one for many in the entertainment industry, as Mapaputsi was a beloved figure known for his vibrant personality and contributions to Kwaito music.
Mapaputsi first rose to fame with his hit single “Izinja,” which became a national anthem for Kwaito lovers. Despite his illness, which had plagued him for over a year, Mapaputsi remained optimistic about his recovery and future endeavors. A close friend, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that the singer had been showing signs of improvement before his untimely death.
“He was showing signs of improvement, but I guess he had given up. He was in pain, but he was looking forward to bookings for the festive season,” the friend shared. This sentiment was echoed by another friend, who also chose to remain unnamed, stating, “We are heartbroken by the news. We thought it was a hoax, but we’ve seen it’s true. uMnganami (my friend) is no more; he lost the fight of recovery.”
The passing of Mapaputsi is a significant loss to the Kwaito music scene, where he had made an indelible mark with his unique sound and energetic performances. His death comes as a shock, especially after he had recently dismissed rumors about his health. Last month, Mapaputsi took to his WhatsApp status to refute claims that he was bedridden, posting a video from Durban where he was spending time with friends and enjoying life.
In the video, Mapaputsi confidently stated, “Baphi laba, baphi laba…bathi ubani osembhedeni? (Where are they, where are they…they say I’m bedridden?) Angizwanga…mina ngise Durban mos, awufuna uku’booker book see you soon (Excuse me…I’m in Durban, if you want to book, book see you soon), I’m in Durban having a good time. Baphi laba banxamba amanga ngise Durban, indaba yabo okuthi family family umuntu ulele phansi I don’t know (Where are they, they are lying about me, I’m in Durban, their news about family saying I’m bedridden I don’t know).”
Mapaputsi’s death is a reminder of the challenges faced by many artists in the industry, where rumors and misinformation can sometimes overshadow the truth. His manager, Busi Kunene, along with his friends and family, will undoubtedly face a difficult period ahead as they come to terms with his passing.
The music world will forever remember Mapaputsi for his contribution to Kwaito music and his unyielding spirit in the face of adversity. As fans mourn his loss, many will continue to celebrate his life and the music he left behind. The forthcoming press statement and media briefing from Busi Kunene will provide further details, but for now, the nation joins together in honoring the legacy of a true Kwaito legend.
