THE DEATH of Tokollo “Magesh” Tshabalala has been met with different reactions.
He was a member of the popular band TKZee that released hits after another from 90s until now.
“Magesh” as he was commonly known within the entertainment sector, died on Monday due to epileptic seizure.
This was confirmed by the family.
Yes, he was a ‘bad boy’ having taken drugs and evading arrest in Botswana but here in SA, he was loved, adored and admired by many for his simplicity and being a jolly fellow.
I met him on several occasions for interviews whilst working for the Daily Sun at our usual and popular eatery spot in Braam- Mzithos.
The band TKZee, that also featured now Manchester United technical team member and former Orlando Pirates player Benni McCarthy, also had a brush with the law for tax evasion and as a result went separate ways to carve their own futures.
But that did not deter them, they got back together as they were booked left, right and center.
My last show to see them live was at the recent Heineken International 5-aside in Midrand, what a show they rendered to hundreds of fans and international stars such as Clarence Seedorf, who played for Ajax, Real Madrid, Inter Milan and AC Milan and former Liverpool and Barcelona’s Luis Garcia.
The family has requested privacy during this difficult period.
Orlando Pirates, the former club of Tokollo’s father Stanley ‘Screamer’ Tshabalala, also issued a statement on social media.
”Orlando Pirates football club is saddened by the news of the passing of the son of Mr Stanley Tshabalala, Tokollo. Tokollo, who also goes by the name of Magesh, was a renowned musician, famously known for his song writing and being a member of the group TKZee. We convey our heartfelt and deepest sympathy to the Tshabalala family and pledge our profound moral support,’’ read the statement.
PSL outfits Mamelodi Sundowns, Moroka Swallows and other teams have sent messages of condolences to the family.
‘Gwayza’ Tokollo’s best buddy and fellow musician said it was tragic that immediately after they’ve patched their differences now this happen.
“Last year December we had a fallout but worked on resolving our differences as we were working on a project. But it seems that project will not see the light of the day as the main man behind is no more,” says ‘Gwayza’.
McCarthy has also sent message of comfort to the family.
The lyricist is no more- rest eternally in Peace ‘Panstsula’.
At the time of his passing he was 45.
The memorial and funeral details will be announced soon.
Image (Asiphelelanga. The complete TKZee group is now short of Magesh).
