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Bongani Ndlovu, [email protected]

ACHUZI frontman Unity “MaUzah” Moyo has poured his heart out following the shattering and surreal feeling he experienced when he heard that South African Kwaito legend Mapaputsi had died. The two had a fruitful music connection spanning 15 years.

Mapaputsi (48), real name Sandile Ngwenya, died on September 5 in hospital, after a long battle with illness Mapaputsi was a pioneer of the Kwaito sound, alongside Zola 7, TKZee and Chiskop, among others.

He is well known for his 2001 album with songs such as Woza Friday, Manga Manga Business, My Love and his culture-shifting hit song Izinja, which earned him the Best Kwaito Song Award at the Metro FM Awards in 2002.

He had been battling a long illness that had forced him to spend time in bed before recovering. Mapaputsi’s death comes only a few weeks after the star declared that he was in good health following media reports that he was bedridden due to an undisclosed illness.

Having also followed his career, MaUzah had been working with Mapaputsi in South Africa since 2009, promoting his shows there and the duo had become close.
MaUzah said it was still unbelievable that Mapaputsi was no more and when he heard the news, he did not get a wink of sleep.

“Well, I received the news from his father that he had died because ever since his illness, I had become close to his parents. I felt like I was dreaming. I went to bed for two hours, but unfortunately, I had a gig, so I had to get up and be strong. I told myself I would dedicate this gig to Sandile (Mapaputsi). My first three songs for my set were Izinja, Clever and Mangamanga Business,” said MaUzah.

He described Mapaputsi as a humble and God-fearing man, who he will remember for his hard work. “I would say he had a forceful drive towards all that he wanted to achieve and do. Mapaputsi used to say he made platinum sales on hard copies when there were no digital platforms. He was humble, down-to-earth, and God-fearing. As an artist, he made sure he gave his best in shows, the studio, and interviews, and he was free to mingle with anyone. That’s why you see many people posting pictures with him all over social media,” said MaUzah.

He said he would like to remember Mapaputsi as a great friend who contributed to who he is today. “Our friendship grew musically. I remember the first thing I did with him was his performance intros, then I started DJing and travelling with him. I would say I appreciate him for his kindness and for accepting me as I am. He contributed a lot to who I am today,” said MaUzah.

In 2011, Mapaputsi was booked to perform at the now-defunct Kudu Bar in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. During his visit, he ventured into MaUza’s neighbourhood, Entumbane, where his career with Achuzi took off.

This marked a significant milestone in his journey as an artist. MauZah said it was a memorable time and from then their friendship flourished.
A memorial service for Mapaputsi will be held on Thursday in Soweto before his burial on Saturday at West Park Heroes Acre in Johannesburg.—@bonganinkunzi