The rapper affectionately known as Riky Rick across the globe was deeply loved by his family, friends and the entire entertainment industry.
The family of the South African artist put out a statement confirming Riky ‘Rick’ Makhado (34) death in the early hours of Wednesday morning in Johannesburg.
The statement said his love for family, friends and community is well known. Makhado’s nurturing and development of young musical talent was well documented, and would forever be remembered.
The Makhado family humbly request privacy as they go through this extremely difficult period of grieving. They ask that you please keep them in your prayers, said the statement.
“The family are also deeply thankful for and appreciates the countless messages of love and support received, These are felt deeply.”
Makhado’s last tweet at 03:20 this morning said, “I’ll return a stronger man. This land is still my home.”
The tweet appears to be lyrics from the song As Yet Untitled by artist Sananda Maitreya. Following the news of his passing and the latest tweet, rumours have since spread that Makhado has committed suicide but this is yet to be confirmed.
Twitter user @Gabbie_Kamo12 said the news of his passing has left her feeling emotional.
“So many of us are fighting silent battles and you end up feeling like no one understands or wants to listen to you so you just decide to end your life. I pray for strength for all of those dealing with mental health issues.”
Riky Rick ❤️????
Rest in Power Brother ✊???? pic.twitter.com/0ETVNbtkOE
— Relebogile Mabotja (@RelebogileM) February 23, 2022
Absolutely tragic news about Riky Rick…
Had the pleasure of seeing him live at both large and intimate venues, and he lit up the stage wherever it was.
South African music has lost a beacon who still had so much more to give. Such a sad day. pic.twitter.com/vFxCtiVk4M
— Joe Crann (@YesWeCrann) February 23, 2022
This news of Riky Rick's passing is terribly sad. People are fighting unseen battles. Rest in power Ricky Rick ????️???? #RIPRikyRick
— Ulrich Janse van Vuuren (@UlrichJvV) February 23, 2022
Rest In Glory to a Visionary ????????
A tribute to Riky Rick on YFM from 2pm to 3pm. pic.twitter.com/wBbnyb6XUZ
— Y (@Yfm) February 23, 2022
Another sad day for the South African entertainment industry ????
May your giving, loving and bubbly soul rest in peace, Riky Rick ???? Our prayers and thoughts are with the Makhado family during this heartbreaking time.
Rest Legend ???? ???? pic.twitter.com/fvhdvXAEQw
— Ambitiouz Ent (@Ambitiouz_Ent) February 23, 2022
Rest in peace, Riky Rick. You were actually the coolest guy! And it was my absolute pleasure knowing you ????????
— Ebuka Obi-Uchendu (@Ebuka) February 23, 2022
this is so painful. rest easy my brother. thank you for everything you've done for the culture. we love you. Rikhado Riky Rick Makhado. ???????????? pic.twitter.com/WKdsLjnjI8
— Nkanyezi (@NkanyeziKubheka) February 23, 2022
One thing about Riky Rick ? He loved Cassper, they loved each other through it all, do not bully Cassper Nyovest! #RIPRikyRick pic.twitter.com/TaSuVrKgYj
— ???? (@Mpho_Wabadimo) February 23, 2022
God no! Not Riky Rick
— Ebuka Obi-Uchendu (@Ebuka) February 23, 2022
My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Riky Rick ????
What a loss. He was always good to me and supported me. He will be remembered through his music and humility. A true game-changer always looking to uplift the youth. #RIPRikyRick ???????? pic.twitter.com/cz5sFisT6F
— Pitso Mosimane (@TheRealPitso) February 23, 2022
Riky Rick ???? that brother had the cleanest style Africa ever seen. Sad I never met you.
— TG OMORI (@boy_director) February 23, 2022
Riky Rick was really a quality human at every encounter… if this is true… we’ve lost a really bright light in our industry. ????
— Pearl Thusi (@PearlThusi) February 23, 2022
RIP: Riky Rick
The multi-award winning musician has passed.
He was 34. #RIPRikyRick pic.twitter.com/MP7oJvtvtE
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) February 23, 2022
