Tributes paid to Simphiwe General GTZ Sibisi in memorial service
Sibisi died on September 29 at the age of 49, shortly after undergoing a major surgery.
Family, friends and fans paid tribute to the legendary kwaito star Simphiwe General GTZ Sibisi at a memorial service.
It was held at Pace Community College on October 3.
General GTZ is known for his significant contribution to the music kwaito industry as he was one of the founding members of the iconic kwaito group Chiskop which was formed in 1988.
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Sibisi (49) died on September 29 after undergoing major surgery.
Speaking on behalf of the family at the memorial service, the sister of General GTZ, Gabisile Sibisi, said that her brother had been unwell since 2018.
“My heart is sour from losing my brother. I never thought I’d lose him so soon, especially because he walked himself to the hospital to undergo a surgery that he had been looking forward to since 2018.
“Last year and this year things improved, but I guess it was just another way of saying goodbye,” she said.
Thobela Dlamini, who managed Chiskop throughout their development in the 1990s, characterized the ensemble as a fantastic collective that made working in the music industry enjoyable.
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“Songs flowed easily from this vibrant group. They captivated the audience and they inspired young people, all thanks to Simphiwe,’’ said Dlamini.
He acknowledged the role of sports in nurturing performers, highlighting how Chiskop’s dedication to fitness enabled them to thrive.
General’s friend, Ntobeni Ntobeni, shared a deep affection for him, remembering how he inspired and supported him.
“General was a soldier who was bigger than life itself. We have lost a hero who showed us that its possible to make it even if you are from the dusty streets of Soweto,” he said.
