Education fund for late bassist’s children

An education fund is to be set up for the children of the late musician Makati Molekwa through a benefit concert on 8 December at Bassline in Newtown.

The music industry was saddened by the news of the passing of Molekwa on 28 October. The Johannesburg-based bassist was born in Soweto on 5 April 1972. He was a multi-talented artist, who achieved recognition as a bassist, composer, producer and music director, and was widely respected by his peers, colleagues, friends and family.

At the age of 19 after he attended the music school at FUBA Academy, he enlisted at Tshwane University of Technology to study music and major in bass guitar. Through the years, Makati performed countless shows at many music festivals, night clubs and performing arts events throughout South Africa, neighbouring African countries and Europe.

He had many successful collaborations, performing with some of the finest musicians including Sipho Hot Sticks Mabuse, Kaolin, Super Queens, Ringo Madlingozi, Frank Oppermann, Papa Wemba, Junga Beez and many more. Makati was most remembered, as the bassist for the funk-soul group, B-Traq, which he loved and cherished.

His fellow band mates, Fazza and Naami were devastated by his death. Makati was not just a great bass player and fellow musician, he was a very dear friend and a mentor to me,” said Fazza. “Makati believed in our music and never lost faith in B-Traq.”

Makati was also a loving father and after the death of his wife last year, was left to raise his three boys. In light of this, the music community and friends of Makati have decided to hold a benefit concert in order to raise funds for the three boys.

The money raised will be placed into an Education Trust Fund for his sons. The generosity of those involved in the organising of the event has been overwhelming. All involved have contributed their time and services for free.

Details: 011 838 9145.