South Africa mourns amapiano artists Mpura, Killer Kau and Khanya Hadebe

News about the tragedy began surfacing on social media with music organisations, artists and fans sending their condolences.

“This is a massive loss to the future of South African music,” the South African Music Rights Organisation wrote on social media. “Condolences to their fans, friends and families.”

Rapper Cassper Nyovest wrote: “Today was supposed to be such a dope day for me. It turned into such a heavy day with the loss of such young talented gents. We shall resume tomorrow.”

DJ Sbu wrote: “Just woke up to the sad news of their passing. Deepest condolences to their family, friends, loved ones and dear fans. Rest in peace young kings. The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Ricky Rick wrote: “Becoming a legend at a young age is hard but Killer Kau carried the weight on his shoulders. He never stopped. Never changed. Loved by all of us. Just this Friday we planned to shoot something together with Mpura, my heart is broken boy. I’m sorry my dawg. Love you so much. Rest easy king. We won’t forget you. Illuminated Greens gone too soon, I am sorry. You were just starting to figure this life thing out and we were so happy you guys were starting to grow into yourselves.”

Toya Delazy wrote: “As a musical family, we all mourn the loss of amapiano legends Mpura, Killer Kau and Illuminated Greens. Rest easy kings.”

Killer Kau became an internet phenomenon and was recognised for his talent by DJ Euphonik, which led to their collaboration on the hit single ‘Tholukuthi Hey’.

Killer Kau’s well-known songs include ‘Kataliya’, ‘Tholukuthi Hey’ and ‘Amaneighbour’. Mpura earned a spot in the music industry following the release of ‘Umsebenzi Wethu’. Some of his well-known songs include ‘Umesebenzi Wethu’, ‘Ha Omarata’, ‘Ngwana Mani’, ‘Fudumeza Amanzi’ and ‘iDlozi’.

Hadebe, meanwhile, was a rising artist who made a considerable impact at a young age with songs like ‘Ma Se Kinders’ and ‘New Breed’.