Kwaito legend Sandile Ngwenya, popularly known as Mapaputsi has passed away following an illness.
Hailing from Zola, Mapaputsi went from being a back-up vocalist for music greats such as Sis Rebecca Malope and Vuyo Mokoena to becoming one of SA’s greatest Kwaito Superstar.
In a statement issued to the media, the family confirmed that the music legend had passed away. Mapaputsi died on Thursday evening in hospital following a short illness.
The family expressed their appreciation for the outpouring support and also requested privacy as they dealt with his passing.
“Whilst the family appreciate the immense outpouring of support, love and condolences, the family would like to request for some space and privacy in processing the news and making plans for his burial.
“All details for the funeral and memorial services will be communicated in due time. We plead to please continue to put the Ngwenya family in your prayers in these most difficult times,” read the statement.
Mapaputsi is well known for his iconic hit “Izinja”, and his 2001 album “Izinja” achieved huge success including two Metro FM Awards in 2002 for Best Kwaito Artist and Best Kwaito Song.
Kwaito lovers, fans, supporters and people in the music industry have been sharing their messages of condolences to the fallen musician.
Rapper Priddy Ugly posted a throwback picture of himself and the kwaito star.
“Rest In Power to the original HONNE, The original NTJA’KA, The biggest Dawg. MAPAPUTSI 🐕🙏🏽” he captioned the picture.
Rest In Power to the original HONNE,
The original NTJA’KA,
The biggest Dawg.
MAPAPUTSI 🐕![CDATA[]]>🙏![CDATA[]]>🏽![CDATA[]]>🕊️ pic.twitter.com/kdA1xmLrwA
@TebogoDitshego said on X: “A towering acacia has fallen with the sudden passing of Kwaito legend, Mapaputsi, leaving a void that echoes in the rich landscape of South African music.
“Mapputsi, whose roots were deeply embedded in the soil of Kwaito, has departed from us far too soon. #RIPMapaputsi”
A towering acacia has fallen with the sudden passing of Kwaito legend, Mapaputsi, leaving a void that echoes in the rich landscape of South African music.
Mapputsi, whose roots were deeply embedded in the soil of Kwaito, has departed from us far too soon. #RIPMapaputsi pic.twitter.com/Dfwmrzbs56
@Mo_Magoda said: “Mapaputsi passing away on a Friday is legendary man. Woza Friday was one of the best hits he ever made. RIP to the legend 😭😭😭😭”
Mapaputsi passing away on a Friday is legendary man. Woza Friday was one of the best hits he ever made
— MO (@Mo_Magoda) September 6, 2024
RIP to the legend 😭![CDATA[]]>😭![CDATA[]]>😭![CDATA[]]>😭 pic.twitter.com/gbLM27rYIt
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