By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Kwaito legend and member of iconic group TKZee Tokollo “Magesh” Tshabalala has passed away aged 45.
Tshabalala’s family says he passed away this morning following an epileptic seizure.
“It is with great sadness that the family wishes to confirm the passing of Tokollo “Magesh” Tshabalala. Magesh as he was affectionately known passed away this morning as a result of an epileptic seizure. The family requests for privacy during this difficult period,” the statement said.
He was one of kwaito’s most renowned musicians, famously known for his songwriting and being a member of TKZee, complementing the group with his unique rapping skills.
In 1994, TKZee released their first full album, Halloween, which became a huge hit with smash singles like We Love This Place. The album was certified platinum by the Recording Industry of SA as it sold over 200 000 copies. It also earned them four awards at the SA Music Awards for Best Kwaito Album, Best Duo/Group, Best Single and Best Kwaito Single.
They rose to prominence in 1997 with their hit single Phalafala and a year later, their collaboration with the current Manchester United coach, Benni McCarthy, which was recorded in Amsterdam, shot them to global stardom with their chart-topper, Shibobo, dedicated to the 1998 Fifa World Cup.
In 1999, they produced Guz 2001, a compilation album by TKZee Family, consisting of the original TKZee members alongside other names on their record label TKZ Wrekords, including Gwyza, Loyiso, 2 shot and Dr Mageu sharing the musical stage with Kutlwano Masote.
As the son of soccer coach Stanley “Screamer” Tshabalala, he proved that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree as both were creative geniuses in their own right.
Tshabalala will be remembered as a pioneer of the Kwaito genre with a music career spanning over three decades, writing hit songs, including Mambotje and Dlala Mapantsula.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa, has paid tribute to musical icon, Tokollo Tshabalala, affectionately known as “Magesh,” for his contribution to the sector.
The Minister said Tshabalala was a renowned musician who was famously known for his immense contribution towards the development of South African arts and culture.
“Magesh will forever be remembered as a musical and cultural pioneer who used his artistry as a weapon to uplift and develop the youth of post-apartheid South Africa. His contribution to the arts will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace,” Mthethwa said.