Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse pays tribute to his long-time friend Ray Phiri
Legendary South African musician Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse has spoken of his sadness following the death of his friend Ray Phiri.
"Look, we know he was terminal but it is still a shock. The nation is reeling with shock. Even though we knew he was sick, I was hoping and praying that he'll pull through. I am at a loss for words," Mabuse says.
He still has fond memories of his first encounter with Phiri in the 1960's, when they were still teenagers.
"One of my best memories was when I introduced Phiri to Paul Simon for work on some of the best music that they brought out," Mabuse remembers.
Mabuse says Phiri was one of the best all-round musicians to come out of South Africa.
"We performed together at Birchwood last year and it was almost as it was a premonition because it was a great performance.
Mabuse says he spoke to Phiri's wife on Wednesday morning, and that she is distraught at the death of her husband.
"I am hoping to go down to Nelspruit sometime this week to see what role we can play in honouring Ray, rightfully," Mabuse says.