Ma-willies of kwaito no more
19 March 2008
Kamogelo Seekoei
| NO MORE: Kwaito musician Ma-Willies |
| |
Makhubela dies at his home
Kwaito icon William Bongani Makhubela, also known as Ma-Willies, has died.
Makhubela, 38, drew his last breath at his
His manager Evo Dos Ramos said Ma-Willies had not been well recently and they had made plans for him to go into hospital today.
He said when he spoke to the rough-throated singer yesterday they agreed that he would go into hospital.
“We do not know what the cause is but we suspected TB because he had the symptons,” he said.
“Base 2 Base would like to pass its condolences to his wife and children,” said Dos Ramos.
Makhubela had just finished recording his latest album, titled Shark is Moving with Base 2 Base Records when he fell sick.
Ma-Willies featured on the albums of Mahoota – Phula, Mandla Spikire, Jacarumba and Brown Dash.
In 1997 he was approached by Mdu Masilela, a popular producer who invited him to join his record label. That’s where his first album Intwenjani, and the name Ma-Willies was adopted.
Ma-Willies was famous for songs like Intwenjani, Gagu, Bomba o Wele Bicycle and Thula Mabota.
He released eight albums including Intwenjan, Liya Khuzikhehla, Hoezet, Ke Tswere Lotto and Kwaito Graduation.
Makhubela is survived by his wife and children.
Dos Ramos said his company would arrange a memorial service for him soon.
