Zimbabwean gospel musician Tatenda Mahachi was among a galaxy of gospel musicians who attended a private tribute function for the late South African gospel music icon S’fiso Ncwane that was held in Durban last Sunday.
Ncwane died of kidney failure in 2016 at the age of 37.
Mahachi and Ncwane collaborated on a 2015 hit single titled Ndinoda Jesu/Ngiyamuthanda uJesu, which marked the beginning of their connection.
The two went on to share the stage on a number of gospel concerts in South Africa, including the AfriGospel Unite Festival before Ncwane died in December 2016.
However, Ncwane’s death did not deter Mahachi from visiting Durban, which had turned out to be his second home, where he would perform at events such as the Kings Outreach Ministry International all-night crusade.
Last Sunday Mahachi joined Ncwane’s friends and family donned white at the Heroes Acre Cemetery in Durban to commemorate the late musician’s life on his birthday as they unveiled his tombstone.
A private gathering, interspersed by song and dance was later held at Westville Country Club, which was attended by musicians including Sipho Makhabane, Ayanda Tanzi, Thina Zungu, Pindie P, S’bu, Jumbo and Melusi Mbokazi, among others.
Invited guests were given an opportunity to sing Ncwane tribute songs or and give testimony about the late gospel icon.
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“When I was introduced by the MC called Mthunzi I stood up and spoke about how I became friends with my brother S’fiso,” Mahachi told Standard Style.
“I shared about our collaborations and festivals that we attended until the time he died.
“I also took time to sing S’fiso’s hit song Halleluyah in remembrance of our friendship.”
Mahachi said it was an emotional moment when Ncwane’s widow Ayanda shared her aggrieved experience when she learnt about her husband’s death.
She said life has never been the same since the death of her husband eight years ago, Mahachi said.
Ayanda also handed over the golden microphone as family legacy to their eldest son Ngcweti, who is a talented hip-hop musician.
Ncwane is survived by Ayanda and two sons, Umawenzokuhle and Ngcweti.
Mahachi said he was working on a new album to be released this year.
