Mararaza changed his tune and ways after God’s calling
Born: July 4 1947 Died: September 3 2016 Funeral: September 10 2016 Burial: Mdabula Cemetery
XITSONGA music legend Mbhazima Wilson Mathebula, popularly known as Mararaza, has died at the age of 69.
Mararaza of Mulamula in Malamulele, Limpopo, was one of Tsonga musicians who contributed immensely to the playlist of Radio Tsonga, the forerunner of Munghana Lonene FM.
He was born on July 4 1947 at Mdabula, Limpopo, to Risenga John Mathebula and his wife Tsatsawani Mamayila – the first born of their six children.
He began school at Tlangelani Junior Primary School and later at neighbouring Tlangelani Higher Primary, both at Mdabula village.
He later left for Johannesburg where he worked for Bull Brand on the West Rand.
In 1971 he left work to make music. His first single, Xi dakwile
Maria, dominated the airwaves to spawn a prolific career in the 1970s to the 80s. Altogether he released 10 albums.
Mararaza performed regularly in Limpopo and Johannesburg.
However, he went back to formal employment at Sapekoe Tea Estate, where he worked for 22 years as a driver. He retired two years ago.
His younger brother Mudungwazi Frank Mathebula said the family was proud to have had a popular figure like Mararaza.
“He made us famous and we are celebrating his life,” he said.
ANC MP Joe Maswanganyi, who also comes from Mdabula, also paid tribute to Mararaza.
“We grew up supporting his music; he was an ambassador for Shangaan music.”
After retiring from Sapekoe, Mararaza, who had moved to Mulamula, joined the Apostolic Faith Mission of Pastor Alistar Mashamba. He abandoned the life of showbiz and booze.
“I used to drink all weekends until I retired from my job,” he said after joining the church. He said he was a womaniser too.
He is survived by four children, three siblings – Frank, Mike and Khubani – and eight grandchildren.
The funeral service will be held at Mulamula at 6am before the cortege leaves for Mdabula where he will be laid to rest at the family burial site.