Tributes pour in for ‘humble, hard-working’ Riky Rick

Makhado, popularly known as Riky Rick, passed away in the early hours of Wednesday morning at the age of 34.

The cause of his death has not been confirmed amid reports of suicide.

The 'Amantombazane' hitmaker rose to fame in 2014 after releasing his single 'Nafukwa'.

His last tweet, posted in the early hours of the morning, left many in shock.

In a statement, the family said he will be remembered for his nurturing of young talent.

“His love for family, friends and community is well known. Riky’s nurturing and developing of young musical talent is well documented, and will forever be remembered. He leaves behind his wife,two children, his mother and five siblings.”

At the same time the family asked for privacy.

“The Makhado family humbly request privacy as they go through this extremely difficult period of grieving. The family are also deeply thankful for and appreciates the countless messages of love and support received. These are felt deeply,”

It says details of the funeral and memorial will be confirmed at a later stage.

Various public figures, including EFF leader Julius Malema, took to Twitter, expressing their shock at Riky Rick’s sudden passing.

Rocker and The Voice SA co-presenter Francois Van Coke paid tribute by saying it was an honour to have worked with Riky Rick.

“We met on the set of the boys in 2019. We worked on a song and we became very close in that time, we spent so much time together, hung out and we became very friendly with each other and eventually we did a song together.

“So I feel super-honoured that I had the privilege of working with him, getting to know him and befriending him. I am a massive fan of his work and even before I knew him.

“I have got so much respect for him and he is going to be missed.”