12/12/2025
A SOMBER FESTIVE SEASON FOR MAKOMPO MUSIC LOVER |
LIMPOPO - It has been a distressing sight and an emotional burden for Makompo music fans as a series of tragedies have struck the genre over the past two to three months, just as the festive season reaches its peak.
The Makompo scene has been shaken by multiple incidents involving its prominent artists and supporters. Last month, popular artist Kharishma was involved in a serious car crash in Polokwane alongside Vincent Maphopha, who died at the scene, and Juddy Mabula, who later succumbed to his injuries. Kharishma remains hospitalised.
In another blow, Seetja from Ga-Mphahlele , a well-known supporter of the genre — was fatally stabbed by a close friend, just a week after attending his friend, Juddy Mabula’s funeral.
The Makompo community also continues to mourn the death of musician and producer Baaitsi Molimisi, popularly known as Dr Nel. Molimisi was found unconscious and abandoned on a road in Lephalale after disappearing from a gig without the knowledge of his team. He later died, and police have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
More recently, artist KayCherlow (Lehlogonolo Khwinana) and his crew survived a collision with a bakkie on their way to a gig in Ga-Stan, Zebediela. They remain in hospital following the early-morning crash.
Adding to the turmoil is the ongoing legal battle of musician Shebeshxt (Lehlogonolo Chauke), who is currently remanded in custody after allegedly shooting a man in Ladanna, Polokwane, on 19 October 2025.
His repeated bail attempts have been postponed, with his next appearance scheduled for 15 December when final arguments and a magistrate’s decision are expected.
With multiple artists hospitalised, ongoing court proceedings, and the loss of key figures, Makompo music lovers are facing a sombre festive season — one marked by uncertainty rather than celebration.
By Updates with LolahM
