Award winning South African rapper and music producer Rikhado “Riky Rick” Makhado's family, friends and industry colleagues, gathered Johannesburg today on Tuesday 01 March 2021, to pay tribute their last respects to him. His send-off was beautiful fit for the icon he was.
The musician died last week died on Wednesday, 23 February at age 34. His passing has left the entire country reeling and tributes haven't stopped pouring in since his family confirmed the tragic news. Circumstances surrounding his cause of death remain unknown however, according to several reports police have launched an inquest into his untimely death.
A private funeral service for the rapper was broadcast online today where attendees were dressed in white as they bid farewell to him. According to Daily Sun, his body was cremated after the private funeral service.
His wife Bianca Naidoo, paid a heartfelt tribute to him that brought many people to tears. Bianca spoke about the unconditional love they had for each other and how she plans to carry on his legacy.
"Today I am here to pay tribute to my partner, my soul mate. When I think about nine years together, here are the things I am mostly grateful for. Our journey as parents started at the beginning of our relationship. He was an amazing father to Jordan. They had the most incredible bond from day one. She brought softness to his life."
"Our children taught Riky and I the importance of family values. He loved teaching them new things, he wanted them to always be open to new experiences.. He always wanted them to stretch their thinking, expand their horizons . He took a keen interest in their hobbies and passions. He loved them deeply, he was their protector,” she said.
She went to speak about how Riky Rick helped her to break out of her shell: “As a partner he always encouraged me to come out of my shell and to allow myself to step into the light and conquer my shyness, he wanted me to shine. I was put in his life to love him, to care for him and to help him on a journey to fulfill part of his purpose. Ours was deep and pure love.”
Legend's Barber and his business partner, and friend, Sheldon Tatchell also had a few touching words to say about their friendship. He spoke about the first time they met and how their friendships grew resulting in them even becoming business partners.
“I was honoured yesterday to give him his last haircut. It was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do in my life. I miss hearing the sound of his voice saying 'It's too much Shel!' but that voice will ever be engraved in my mind as I move forward and continue his legacy. I love you Rikhado," he said.
Now that his funeral service has taken place ,his memorial service is scheduled to take place on Friday, 4 March 2022. May his soul rest in peace.
