Trompies star’s last wave to DJ Ganyani
Mjokes’ wave at me was the last time I saw him, says DJ Ganyani
When DJ Ganyani Tshabalala waved to fellow artist Mojalefa “Mjokes” Matsane on Saturday while playing at Disoufeng Pub and Restaurant in Meadowlands, Soweto, little did he know that it would be the last time he would see him alive.
Tshabalala, who shared the stage with legendary Kwaito group Trompies that Matsane belonged to, thought he would get a chance to talk to him later. However, it was not to be because he learnt hours later that Matsane died in an accident in the early hours of yesterday.
Other artists who performed at Disoufeng included Glen Lewis, QT, Mayibuye and Msoja GP.
Kalawa Jazmee Records confirmed Mjokes died in a car accident.
“It is with sadness to announce that our Kalawa Jazzmee co-director and fifth member of Trompies Emmanuel Mojalefa Matsane passed away in a car accident. Furthermore, regarding his memorial service and funeral, more details will be given during the week,” read a statement from the record company.
Tshabalala said: “Last night (Saturday) was an epic night eNdofaya (Meadowlands) performing alongside the legendary Trompies, among others. Mjokes waved at me while I was playing my set. I waved back with the intention of seeing him after my performance. I could not see him after my performance.
“To wake up with such horrid news of your untimely passing is saddening. Now I am wondering if that wave you gave me was a hello or Mjokes this was your goodbye to me. Mjokes was one of the realest, humble people I know. Thank you for your commitment to the craft and your humility. We will miss you forever.”
Matsane is known for singing a lead in the famous Trompies hit, Sweety Lavo. Trompies’ other members are Jarius “Jakarumba” Khuse, Mandla “Spikiri” Mofokeng, Zynne “Mahoota” Sibika and Eugene “Donald Duck” Mthethwa.
The Soweto group released its debut album, Sigiya Ngengoma, in 1995.
Those who knew him closely and his fellow band mates defined him as a peaceful person who also cared about others.
Don Laka, who co-founded Kalawa Jazzmee, defined Matsane as hardworking person who respected his work.
“Mjokes used to be the first one to arrive in the studio. He was always on time and always said the right things. He loved peace and hated conflicts. He loved people, just to check on them and how they are doing. He was a funny person. He will be sorely missed by the crew.”
Mthethwa said: “When we are excited to have our first live performance at our neighbourhood, eNdofaya (Meadowlands) since lockdown, we are abruptly woken up to the most saddest news since the existence of Trompies. One of our members has passed on from a car accident. Mjokobezi has left us after performing last night at Disoufeng.
“I don’t know where to start telling my kids that you spent your last moments with, talking to them more than you did with us last night. My baby girl Latoya would be so broken to hear that the love you showed her yesterday, was your goodbyes to all of us.”