Singer Ronnie Joyce, 53, dies
CAPE Town-born jazz sensation Ronnie Joyce died at the age of 53 in Johannesburg yesterday after a long struggle with ill health.
His wife, Hadassah Joyce, posted on her Facebook page: “After a long battle with his health, Ronnie RJ Joyce my precious husband went Home to be with Yeshua his Messiah this morning.
“RIP my darling, with love from me and our children.”
He started his career at the age of 13 in July, 1973, when he regularly left his Athlone home at dawn and made his way to the then-small fishing village of Kalk Bay to sing for visitors at the beach.
He amused and delighted the many visitors with his natural singing talent and charisma.
In 1974 he began performing as a featured singer in Cape Town nightclubs with local bands. In the same year, at the age of 14, he was approached by Clive Calder and Ralph Simon, the managers of Richard Jon Smith, and asked to perform a short spot on the record-breaking tour of the Cape by Richard Jon Smith. Also part of the same tour were Jonathan Butler and Lionel Peterson.
The country soon raved about the young singing sensation and he was a hit, especially in Cape Town.
He went on to record many hits like Give A Little Love, Let it Happen, Everybody Knows and I Need A Little Love.
Musician and music producer Gavin Winter said yesterday: “I remember him as a very good man. I only worked with him while in Johannesburg, and it was great. He will be sorely missed.”
After a 35-year gap, Joyce again performed with Jonathan Butler and Lionel Peterson at the GrandWest Grand Arena in September last year.
On Facebook, friends and family of Joyce posted messages of condolences and tributes. Beverly Ryan said: “Oh no my dearest cuz… how I jus wish I can be with you. Be con- tent (mayb its a bit to soon) God is your strength. Oh man I can say much right now… crying”.
Jackie Roebeck: “I am so sorry about your loss, Natasha. May God grant you strength and comfort. My sincere condolences to u and your family.”
Charmaine Darries: “Tasha I can’t begin to describe what the feelings are of all the Musicians and friends that are in total shock here in Cape Town.
“Sweetheart my condolences from my family to yours be strong lovey he would want you to for your children I can’t imagine how you must be feeling I don’t have your cell no: pls let me.”