By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Kwaito legend Victor Bogopane, popularly known as Doc Shebeleza, has been laid to rest at at Heroes’ Arch in Westpark Cemetery in Johannesburg.
Shebeleza died on 9 January after a battle with health issues.
Shebeleza, 51, was given a resounding tribute when his family members joined rapper Cassper Nyovest on stage as he sang his award-winning hit song Doc Shebeleza. Family members of the late musician danced on stage as Cassper belted out his tribute to the kwaito icon.
The memorial service was held on Wednesday, January 15 2025, at SABC’s Radio park.
Family, friends, and industry peers gathered to bid farewell to a man remembered for his kindness, generosity, and vibrant spirit.
The ceremony was attended by numerous notable figures, including Eugene Mthethwa, Ihhashi Elimhlophe, Gayton McKenzie, Pitch Black Afro, Mzwakhe Mbuli, and Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane.
Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie reflected on Doc Shebeleza’s impact with humor and admiration.
“Today, I am free to speak about a selfless man, a giver who didn’t just look out for himself but uplifted the entire industry. His life was filled with joy, and today, we celebrate that. Thank you, Doc Shebeleza, for everything,” said McKenzie.
He condemned their failure to support artists despite receiving substantial government funding.
“These unions, it’s crime dense, let me tell you. They get money. They’ve been paid millions from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, but there’s no money when artists die,” McKenzie declared.
He expressed frustration that these organisations “can’t even contribute towards the millions we are giving them to even bring 20 rands when an artist has died.”
The minister directed particular criticism toward record label executives, questioning their absence during artists’ times of hardship.
“The record label bosses. You want to tell me you can’t bury a person?” McKenzie questioned.
He emphasised the moral obligation of record labels to support their artists, stating: “Once a person has contributed towards your business, and you can’t even go to the family and say, ‘Mourn your child. We will look after it.”
McKenzie also confronted radio station management about their programming choices, particularly their preference for international music over local content.
In a direct challenge to radio executives, he warned: “Radio bosses, you must come right. We are going to expose you. You must go and look for a job in America if you love American music.”
Mbuli shared his memories of the late artist, paying tribute to his resilience and passion.
“We bow our heads in honour of our comrade and fellow artist, Doc Shebeleza. He was a fighter and an inspiration. Let’s preserve the good memories of him,” said Mbuli.
Maskandi legend Ihhashi Elimhlophe highlighted the challenges faced by South African artists, lamenting the lack of support in the industry.
“In South Africa, when you speak the truth, you’re seen as wrong. Artists here have no other way to make a living besides performing, and yet we aren’t respected like artists in other countries. Outside South Africa, I am treated with more dignity,” he said.
Mthethwa praised Doc Shebeleza for his philanthropy and advocacy.
“Doc Shebeleza wasn’t just my friend—he was a trailblazer. He fearlessly raised awareness about HIV and AIDS at a time when many avoided the topic. His giving heart touched countless lives,” said Mthethwa.
Bogopane rose to prominence during kwaito’s golden era in Southern Africa. While his debut album, Shebeleza, had modest success, his second release, S’kumfete, became a cultural touchstone that contained a barrage of hits and spoke to post-Apartheid South African youth’s carefree, party spirit.
With songs such as the minimalist“Ghets Ghetsa,“ the title track“S’kumfete,” and “Doc Shebeleza,” he became the flavor of many seasons.