April 4 marks a touching moment in South African music history as fans and the industry come together to commemorate the life and legacy of Riky Rick, a hip hop star who tragically passed away three years ago.
The release of his highly anticipated album, “Boss Zonke Forever”, offers a bittersweet yet celebratory experience, drawing fans into the complexities of his journey through the lens of his artistry.
Released exactly ten years after his debut album, “Family Values”, which first introduced the world to the creativity of Rikhado Makhado, “Boss Zonke Forever” encapsulates Rick's passion, struggles, and unwavering love for music.
The artist died by suicide on February 23, 2022, at the tender age of 34, leaving an irreplaceable void in the hearts of many.
Not only was Rick a musical genius, but he was also a cultural icon whose influence transcended beyond the boundaries of the hip hop genre.
Before the album’s launch, record label Sony Music took to social media to remind fans of Rick's impact, celebrating the decade since his iconic debut.
His wife, Bianca Naidoo, shared insights during an interview on 5FM’s “5 Takeover”, revealing the deliberation behind the album's release.
“We sat with this for so long ... Riky put the album together; we just added or mixed and included features we thought were important,” she disclosed, emphasising the emotional weight behind the decision to share new music at this time.
“Boss Zonke Forever” features 17 tracks with collaborations from notable artists like Lusanda, 25K, Focalistic, Cassper Nyovest, and many others.
The album opens with “Higher Power”, a touching piece showcasing the lyrics, “Feeling lost because my daddy never taught me how to drive”, reflecting the struggles and aspirations prevalent in Rick's life.
The second track, “Raindrops”, delves into the balance of family responsibilities and the relentless pursuit of success, a theme familiar to many artists.
"Ndiyabulela", translating to "Thank you”, resonates deeply as Rick reminisces on his upbringing, expressing gratitude for the sacrifice and strength of his mother, who raised him amid challenging circumstances.
It’s a reflective tribute that adds emotional depth to the album, paying homage to his roots and the people who supported him throughout his journey.
Known affectionately as Makhado, Rick was not only a musical innovator but also a fashion icon, inspiring a cultural movement that transcended the music scene.
His ability to combine hip hop with a unique sense of style is evident in his widely acclaimed track “Sidlukotini”, which not only celebrated the music but also influenced fashion trends throughout the country.
It is through the lens of his cherished “Cotton Eaters” community - those who embraced his ethos - that Rick's vision continues to flourish.
The annual Cotton Fest, which he founded, serves as a vibrant homage to his legacy, merging music and fashion in a celebration of South African youth culture.
This year marks its sixth edition, set to take place at The Station in Johannesburg on April 26, with an exciting line-up including artists like A-Reece, Blxckie, Kabza De Small, Tony Dayimane, and Cassper Nyovest.
Rick's legacy, encapsulated in his music, style, and unwavering passion, will firmly remain etched in the hearts of all who felt his influence.
His timeless message - “We never die, we multiply” - remains a guiding light for those inspired by his brilliance.
∎ "Boss Zonke Forever" is now available across all streaming platforms.