SA rapper Costa Titch dies after collapsing on stage

The cause of death was not officially confirmed, but local reports suggest that he had a seizure that may have been triggered by the flashing lights during his performance.

Costa Titch passed away exactly a month after his fellow rapper AKA was killed along with his friend Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane in Durban. Costa Titch and AKA worked together on a number of projects including ‘Nkalakatha Remix’, which also features another late rapper, Riky Rick. Costa Titch had just released a remix for his song ‘Big Flexa’ featuring Akon, whom he had announced he would be collaborating with.

Artists and music industry players took to social media to convey their condolences following news of the artist’s passing.

“SAMRO is saddened by the passing of popular rapper Costa Tsobanoglou, better known as Costa Titch,” the Southern African  Music Rights Organisation wrote on social media. “Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and broader music industry.”

Local rapper Da L.E.S wrote: “RIP Costa Titch. Great talent gone too soon.”

The South African Amapiano Awards wrote: “What’s happening to our artists?”

Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela wrote: “RIP Costa Titch. Nelspruit-born artist and dancer, real name Costa Tsobanoglou, has passed away.”

Costa Titch was known for hits such as ‘Nkalakatha’ and ‘Activate’. Before grabbing the microphone, Costa Titch was part of the New Age Steez dance crew together with Phantom Steeze and Tumi Tladi. Since his debut, he created a style and released songs consistently. His major breakthrough came after the release of his hit song ‘Activate’. Other top songs include ‘Thembi’, ‘Stimela’, ‘Instincts’ and ‘We Alert’.