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Kabelo Mabalane has unveiled a new tribute track for the late Tokollo “Magesh” Tshabalala, marking what would have been the musician’s 50th birthday.
Magesh died after suffering a seizure on August 15, 2022. He would have turned 50 today.
To commemorate the milestone, Kabelo released his new single, Magesh Is Beethoven, taken from his album Everybody Needs Somebody. The song looks back on the experiences and memories the pair built during their years on the road.
“Certain friendships are bigger than time, music and even this life,” Kabelo wrote alongside the release. “What we had was greater than the moments we experienced. We made memories that will remain forever and built a legacy that cannot be wiped away. Tokollo, there is not a single day when your presence is not missed.”
“Today, I honour your life, your talent, your spirit and a brotherhood death could never remove. The world recalls a legend, while I remember my brother. Your name will continue to be said, your music will keep playing, and your light will never disappear.
“Magesh, we changed the world. We travelled across the world. We were arrested, argued, cried. We drove over 200km/h on the highway. We had major wins and major losses. In 30 years, we lived the equivalent of five lifetimes. What a journey it was. Rest in peace, my nigga.”
The single arrives after Kabelo re-entered the music industry on September 3, following more than 10 years devoted to full-time ministry.
“This record is not about picking whether I am an artist or a pastor,” he said. “It is about existing in the space between both identities and using the power of each to make a difference in people’s lives.”
“They are psalms from the streets: focused beats, affirmations, encouragement, prayers and open invitations. South Africa needs music like this as a soundtrack for the current season.”
