Recording label set to mark Mandoza’s legacy
KWAI T O singer Mduduzi “Mandoza” Tshabalala’s legacy will live through his recording label, Nkalakatha Records and possibly his latest protégé, Pascal.
In an explosive performance in memory of the late singer, Pascal was officially introduced by the late singer’s widow Mpho Tshabalala at the icon’s funeral service held at the Grace Bible Church in Pimville, Soweto.
He had fans and mourners dancing away as he sang a song written for his idol and for mer boss titled Mandoza ngu Tshabalala (Mandoza is Tshabalala).
The performance was followed by a medley of Kwaito hits from the 1990s performed by veteran artists including Mdu Masilela, Oskido and Trompies.
Family, friends and fellow musicians commended the Soweto star for his tenacity, humility and love for his wife and children.
Mandoza’s uncle Mzwakhe Tshabalala spoke of his nephew’s childhood and adult life, and of the respect the singer had for family values.
“Thembinkosi was raised by his mother. He comes from a shack. He asked me to look for a house for his mother. He never did anything without his wife.
“He emulated what his grandfather and I did. He learnt that a woman is treated well and not abused,” said Mzwakhe.
Mandoza’s f ather- in- law praised his daughter Mpho for being at her husband’s side right up to the end. He thanked the Tshabalala family for giving him a son-in-law who showed him great respect.
Mandoza died last Sunday after losing his battle with cancer on the way to the hospital.
His wife said he passed away on her birthday.
She said they didn’t sleep much on Saturday night. “At 5am, he woke me up and wished me a happy birthday. He told me he didn’t have a present for me that money could buy, but that his present to me would be to fight for his life,” Mpho said.
She added that although her husband was gone, she was not alone and had family and friends. She vowed to look after their four children and said she’d continue to work hard and keep afloat the empire they sought to build through the recording company.
Mandoza’s eldest son Tokello shared lighter moments about his father’s immaculate sense of fashion.
“Every morning he would call me while on my way to school and ask me what to wear. He loved dressing up.”
Deputy Arts and Culture Minister Rejoice Mabudafhasi and other dignitaries, including Bafana Bafana captain Itumeleng Khune, and former South African cricketer Shaun Pollock gave messages of comfort to Mandoza’s wife and family.
Mandoza was laid to rest in the Heroes Acre at the West Park Cemetery.