Tributes for Mapaputsi pour in at memorial service in Mofolo

Kwaito legend Sandile Ngwenya, known as Mapaputsi, has been remembered and honoured for his contributions to the music industry.

In a memorial service held on Thursday, September 12 at Eyethu in Mofolo, speakers described Mapaputsi as a pioneer who made a significant contribution to kwaito and putting Soweto on the map. Former music executive and Mapaputsi’s friend Tshepo Nzimande urged young musicians to emulate Mapaputsi.

“Mapaputsi was patient and he never gave up on his dreams. He was also humble and had respect for other people. I would like to urge today’s artists to learn from him,” said Nzimande.

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Peace Mabe, Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture also praised Mapaputsi for using kwaito to inspire young people from across the country.

“He was from Soweto but he made us and made numerous awards for his music. He proved to their young people that it’s not about where you come from but when you have dreams, anything is possible,” Mabe said.

The Heritage Hall at Eyethu was packed to capacity by Sowetans, music executives and kwaito royalty.

They remembered Mapaputsi through song and dance while sharing special memories they had with him.

Ghetto Ruff founder Lance Stehr reminisced on the good times they had when shooting music videos with Mapaputsi.

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He said he had a serious nature and also had a serious nature but after all, he delivered.

“We worked with him on two albums before he went on to work with other record labels and there was never any animosity from our side. His music is still there.”

Mapaputsi’s children also took to the stage and performed one of his songs as a way of paying their respects to their father.

The kwaito legend will be laid to rest this coming weekend, September 14.