[Ricky Rick Laid To Rest]R.I.P. Rikhado Ricky Rick Makhado: Cotton Fest Will Never Be The Same

On Tuesday 01 March 2022, friends and family paid tribute to the 'Boss Zonke' hitmaker Ricky Rick at a private  funeral service held in Johannesburg. The Cotton Fest founder and Mzansi's most balling rappers, real name Rikhado Muziwendlovu Makhado, passed away on Wednesday, 23 February, at age 34.

He leaves behind his wife, two children, mother, and five siblings.

In heart-wrenching tributes, Makhado's family members paid homage to the South African legend for his big heart and loving and gentle nature & personality. 

'THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SOUL'

Speaking on behalf of the Makhado family, a representative said: "If they had to sum up Rikhado in one word, it would be love." He added: "Rikhado was full of love and loved everyone."

He referred to Makhado as "the most beautiful soul," saying he was "full of compassion for everyone, even people he didn't know." 

About his first impressions of the rapper, Makhado's brother-in-law remembered "Rickster," saying: "I knew then that I had a brother who would love and take care of my sister."

Talking about how Makhado encouraged him during a difficult period in his life, he said: "He was my brother, who called me all the time, comforting me. And ensuring me that everything would be okay and saying that it was just a passing phase." 

"He had a gift of always making you feel like a brand-new person, and I will really miss those chats," he said. 

'HE SHOWED THE SOUTH AFRICAN YOUTH THAT ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE'

A cousin spoke on behalf of the Zondo family and said: "You created a safe space for me to be myself."

Referencing a childhood game they used to play together, he said: "I spy with my little eye, Rikhado's love shining in our presence and his joy at present."

"Our conversations continue to get deeper; your words and voice are everlasting. Your legacy lives in forever. We love you and thank you."

Another cousin said: "Rikhado had characteristics and values that many of us wish to emulate. He was caring, gentle, humble, humorous, extremely talented. A man of faith, an amazing listener and had a strong love for his family and the people close to him."

"He showed the South African youth that anything is possible," he added.

'HE FELT TOO DEEPLY, AND HE LOVED TOO MUCH'

Makhado's younger brother spoke on behalf of his siblings, and started his tribute, saying: "There isn't enough words in the English lexicon, and there isn't enough time in this universe to describe you." 

"You were pure energy and joy. You had to be felt to be understood. A speech could never explain the force you are. So, I won't even try." 

He added: "You protected me and saved me. You used to say I do the same for you. It pains me so deeply that I didn't when it came down to it. At the end, when it mattered the most." 

"He felt too deeply, and he loved too much."