Mbabane – The hip hop world has lost another one of its own and it is not just South Africa that has been left reeling from shock following the news of fan favourite Ricky Rick’s passing, but his local fans too.
The “Boss zonke” hit maker, whose real name is Rikhado Makhado, was found by his friends hanging at his house this morning. A few hours before the news broke, the 34-year-old had posted a cryptic tweet where he wrote: “I’ll return a stronger man. This land is still my home.”
Soon after the news of his passing broke out, his fans, including those from the Kingdom of Eswatini, took to social media to share their shock and condolences.
The last time the rapper hit Eswatini’s shores was back in 2018 where he shared the stage with local and other international artists during the now defunct Hipnotik Festival. At the time, his hit single “Boss Zonke” was still popular among local hip hop lovers and he gave a splendid performance, much to the satisfaction of his followers who graced the event.
The messages shared by his local fans were mostly centred around “depression” and how real it is after it emerged that the artist was suffering from the condition. “Depression has no face, check on your okes, tell your kins you love them every chance you get” read one post on Facebook which was a caption to Ricky Rick’s picture.
“It is hard to speak up, opening to our closest friends, sharing our challenges. We are all struggling in different ways in this life and we get through the struggles by sharing what is bothering us. Rest in peace King,” another post.
The rapper, who was also known as a fashionista, was according to a friend who was interviewed by News24, going through depression behind closed doors, even though he had things lined up for him this year. “On social media he seemed happy, but he was dying inside until his breaking point, which saw him do the unthinkable. We are still shocked and too emotional to talk right now,” says the friend.
About Ricky Rick
Rikhado Muziwendlovu Makhado (20 July 1987 – 23 February 2022), known professionally as Rikcy Rick, was a South African rapper, songwriter, singer, composer, actor, entrepreneur, and fashion designer. Makhado was the founder and owner of record label Cotton Club Records. He was also a member of Boyz N Bucks.
He rose to fame when he released his single “Nafukwa” in 2014. Makhado released his debut studio album Family Values (2015), which became certified platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA).
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