South Africans mourn rapper Riky Rick

Keshia Africa|Published

South African rapper Riky Rick has died and the cause of his death is yet to be confirmed. Picture: File image

The rapper affectionately known as Riky Rick across the globe was deeply loved by his family, friends and the entire entertainment industry.

The family of South African artist put out a a statement confirming Riky ‘Rick’ Makhado (34) death in the early hours of Wednesday morning in Johannesburg.

The statement said his love for family, friends and community is well known. Makhado’s nurturing and developing of young musical talent was well documented, and would forever be remembered.

The Makhado family humbly request privacy as they go through this extremely difficult period of grieving. They ask that you please keep them in your prayers, said the statement.

“The family are also deeply thankful for and appreciates the countless messages of love and support received, These are felt deeply.”

Makhado’s last tweet at 03:20 this morning said, “I’ll return a stronger man. This land is still my home.”

The tweet appears to be lyrics from the song As Yet Untitled by artist Sananda Maitreya. Following the news of his passing and the latest tweet, rumours have since spread that Makhado has committed suicide but this is yet to be confirmed.

Twitter user @Gabbie_Kamo12 said the news of his passing has left her feeling emotional.

“So many of us are fighting silent battles and you end up feeling like no one understands or wants to listen to you so you just decide to end your life. I pray for strength for all of those dealing with mental health issues.”

Just last week, the Boss Zonke hitmaker shared a video of himself and his wife, Bianca Naidoo, which received many hateful comments online.

Twitter user @la_ch_oco told her Twitter timeline that they were quick to bash the artist when that video was released but now want to preach kindness.

Twitter user @Buhlebenature1 shared a recent clip of Makhado. In the clip, he ends the interview by saying, “It’s your boy Riky Rick. If you never hear from me again, I love you, God bless you.”

Since his establishment as an artist, Makhado released one album, Family Values in 2015 and one Extended Project (EP), Stay Shining, in 2017.

Makhado also was the founder and owner of record label, Cotton Club Records.

He is survived by his wife, Bianca Naidoo and their two children, Jordan and Maik Makhado.

Details of the funeral and memorial will be confirmed at a later stage.