Radio legend Eddie Zondi remembered

Tributes continue to pour in for the late Metro FM Disk Jockey (DJ), Eddie Zondi. The Ruimsig resident’s death came as a shock to most South Africans as he was on their radios on Sunday 15 June, presenting his show the Romantic Repertoire.

Zondi who had been behind the microphone at Metro FM for 18 years, was announced dead on Monday 16 June, with the cause alleged to be a heart attack.

It is reported that he complained of chest pains on the morning of his death and was rushed to Wilgeheuwel Hospital. He was declared dead on arrival at the hospital’s casualty.

He was well known for his love for rhythm and blues songs which were the centre of his playlist during his radio show’s playlist.

Social networks went abuzz with tributes from fans and colleagues in the broadcasting industry.

Many stoeps were polished and much grass was cut with garden shears while listening to Eddie Zondi.

— Khaya Dlanga (@khayadlanga) June 16, 2014

Sad at the passing of Eddie Zondi. The romantic repertoire can never be the same again. Heaven will now have great music, artists and Zondi

— MMusi Maimane (@MaimaneAM) June 16, 2014

My fav Eddie Zondi moment. Callers pours her heart out after being dumped. Zondi responds "My girl I am sure you are his loved one too"

— Redi Tlhabi (@RediTlhabi) June 16, 2014

During his lifetime, he released four compilation CDs, Zondi’s Romantic Ballads. Since the announcement of his death, the station has decided to change their playlist and play more of the kind of music that Zondi usually played while on air.

While paying tribute, former station manager Romeo Kumalo remembered Zondi as a dedicated and committed individual. “Eddie was a true legend, he respected and loved his listeners.”

Kumalo also mentioned that Zondi was a soccer fan, with Orlando Pirates being his favourite local team. Colleague Unathi Msengana said she remembered the true gentleman Zondi was, making reference to the fact that he would always offer female colleagues chairs to sit, even though he was older than them.

Most South African rival stations are also paying tributes to Zondi by playing the kind of music he played.

Zondi is survived by his wife and details of his memorial and funeral service are still to be announced.