Singer Ricky Rick found Dead after Battling Severe Depression
South African Award-winning hip-hop rapper Rikhado Muziwendlovu Makhado, popularly known as Riky Rick has died at age 34.
The rapper’s family confirmed he died early on Wednesday. In a statement sent to TshisaLIVE, they asked for privacy and prayers.
“The family of South African artist Riky Rick with profound sadness this afternoon confirmed his untimely passing. Son, husband, father, brother and uncle, Riky ‘Ricky’ Makhado, 34, sadly passed away in the early hours of February 23 in Johannesburg.
”Affectionately known as Riky Rick across the globe, he was deeply loved by his family, friends and the entire entertainment industry. His love for family, friends and community is well-known. Riky’s nurturing and developing of young musical talent is well documented, and will forever be remembered.
He leaves behind his wife, two children, mother and five siblings.
”The Makhado family humbly request privacy as they go through this extremely difficult period of grieving. The family has not appointed a spokesperson at this point and ask that you please keep them in your prayers.
The family are also deeply thankful for and appreciate the countless messages of love and support received, These are felt deeply.
”Meanwhile, before his death, he made a tweet which people hoped weren’t his last words“
I’ll return a stronger man. This land is still my home”, Ricky tweeted.
Riky Rick burst into mainstream fame with his platinum certified Family Values in 2015 after making a name for himself and asserting his influence in SA hip-hop culture for several years behind the scenes.
The rapper’s brand became synonymous with fashion because of his style and love for fine clothes and culture.One of his greatest achievements, in addition to his music legacy, is the establishment of Cotton Festival, which was due to make a comeback in 2022 after taking a break due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
In 2020, the rapper opened up about his struggle with depression after his father died.
He told listeners of his podcast series LAB LIVE that he suffered from “chronic depression” and was on a “destructive path” after losing his dad.
“I lost my father at a time when I needed the help. I lost him at a time when I needed that voice. A lot of people don’t understand that you can never replace the voice of a father. It wasn’t like he just died, it was like 18 years, living with your dad for a year, and then going back to your mom. I love being with my mom but living with him for a year. A child is never meant to live without his parents.
”Riky Rick is survived by his wife Bianca Naidoo and two children.
