Hilton College saddened by death of Old Boy, Riky Rick
Hilton College, the alma mater of award-winning rapper, Riky Rick, reacted with shock and sadness at news of his death on February 23.
In a post on their Facebook page, the school extended their heartfelt sympathies to the family of musician, actor, writer, composer and record producer.
Born and raised in KwaMashu, Riky Rick (34), whose real name was Rikhado Muziwendlovu Makhado, matriculated at the school in 2005. In 2016, he visited Hilton College and his old boarding house, Falcon, where he joined in the house prayers before addressing the whole school in the theatre.
Riky Rick’s death was confirmed in a statement issued by his family. In it, they said he was deeply loved by his family, friends and the entire entertainment industry.
“His love for family, friends and community is well-known. Riky’s nurturing and development of young musical talent is well documented, and will forever be remembered,” the family added.
Asking fans to keep his wife, Bianca, two children, his mother and five siblings in their prayers, the Makhado family requested privacy to grieve. They added: “The family is also deeply thankful for and appreciates the countless messages of love and support received, these are felt deeply.”
After matriculating from
Hilton, Riky enrolled at AFDA, the South African School of Motion Picture Medium and Live Performance, where he studied film production.
Riky, the founder and owner of record label Cotton Club Records, who was also a member of Boyz N Bucks, rose to fame when he released his single Nafukwa in 2014. His debut studio album Family Values followed in 2015, and was later certified platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA).
He went on to release Amantombazane and Amantombazane (Remix) featuring fellow artists OkMalumkoolKat, Maggz, Kwesta, Ginger Bread Man, Kid X, Nadia Nakai and DJ Dimplez, Sondela featuring Zano, Boss Zonke and Sidlukotini.
In November 2018, Riky
Rick headlined Cotton Fest and last year, he released the single Forever with Frank Casino. The rapper won the best collaboration award at the South African Music Awards for Mali Eningi by Big
Zulu featuring himself and Intaba Yase Dubai.
Over the years he was also nominated in the following SAMA categories: male artist of the year, newcomer of the year, best rap album, best music video and best hip hop album.
RiSA chief executive officer, Nhlanhla Sibisi, said: “The loss of Riky Rick cuts deep. He was a shining light in the hip hop community and a much-loved star of South African music.
“A consummate performer, humble, kind and respectful is how we will remember him. He leaves behind a blueprint for a critically acclaimed and popular musician, a businessman and a fashionable brand.
“We are saddened that he is no more and wish peace and comfort for his family, friends and fans. May his soul rest in peace.”
KZN MEC for arts and culture, Hlengiwe Mavimbela, also expressed her condolences, saying that her thoughts and prayers were with his family, friends and fans during this difficult time. The memorial service will take place on Friday, March 4, and will be live-streamed.