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'ROBBIE ALWAYS HAD A SMILE ON HIS FACE'

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Robbie Malinga. Photo: City Press/Daily Sun
Robbie Malinga. Photo: City Press/Daily Sun

The memorial service of the late Afro-pop legend, Robbie Malinga took place today at Grace Bible Church in Soweto.

The service was attended by many which included the musicians, politicians and Mzansi's celebrities.

Kabelo Mabalane led the programme.

Gospel Singer Lebo Segobela opened with her songs of praise.

All speakers described the husband, father, Producer, song writer,  mentor, friend and a social entrepreneur as someone who was full of jokes.

"He always had a smile on his face," said his neighbours  who took to stage.

His friends  and colleagues in the entertainment industry said  he was a straight talker.

"If u are wearing something that doesn't look good on you, he would tell you on the spot," said Loyiso Mangena.

They said he took music very serious. 

"He didn't take any problems to stage," added Loyiso.

He said every moment with Robbie was great. 

"He was fun to be around with," he said.

Celebrities who attended the service included Dj sbu, Zahara, Ringo, T-bo touch, Idols star Karabo, Chicco Twala. Doctor Malinga, Musa Sukwene and many more.

Government officials included the Gauteng MEC for Education  Panyaza Lesufi, MEC faith Mazibuko, Anc spokesman Zizi kodwa and many more.

The attendance was so huge that all seats at the church were occupied.

His friend and partner  in music from  Durban, Mdu Ngcobo, said: "If I could tell his jokes we could sleep here." 

He said that it was like Robbie knew his death was near.

"He called us to Joburg in November and we made a song. When we asked if he was not adding his voice, he said he wasn't because he won't be there when it is released," 

Earlier in the week, Robbie's father told the media that his son took music from him.

It was proven true that music runs in the family's blood when the family choir took to stage.

Their sweat melodies left the crowd begging for more. 

Representatives of the biggest soccer  teams in Mzansi, Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs  and Sundowns were also at the service.

They all said that they have lost a legend.

Kaizer Chiefs Bobbie Motaung said this year has been a very sad year when looking at the number of people who passed away.

Robbie was said to have been an Orlando pirate fan.

The team took to stage to sing the the song which was said to have been written by him and TK Nciza. 

The crowd joined and danced.

"This song will never go anywhere, meaning Robbie will always be in the history books of Pirates," said an Orlando Pirate representative, Mickey Modisane.

Lindelani Mkhize of the Joyous Celebration Gospel group said that he loved everything about Robbie.

"He was a man with a plan. He knew exactly where he was going," he said.

Many said it was like Robbie knew he won't stay long because what he did in his 47 years, to some, it could take 100 years to accomplish. 

"He is definitely a hero," said Chicco Twala.

He said that he felt like Robbie was called by God to come and celebrate Jesus's birthday with them in heaven as he died on Christmas day.

"The death of Robbie is not only the loss of his family but the loss of the nation. We will forever miss him," said Chicco. 

Musicians who spent time with him said Robbie always put his family first. 

Dj Sbu said what he liked most about Robbbie was that he knew how to step back and let others shine.

Jakarumba said Robbie saved  their lives.

"He was our motivator," he said.

His son and wife shed a tear as his pictures displayed on the big screens. 

Zahara said Robbie was like his father. 

"He even bought me clothes," she said before she performed the songs she made with Robbie.

MEC Faith Mazibuko closed by saying that they have lost a hero and a legend as the province.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday at Rhema bible church in Randburg.

He will be laid to rest at the West park cemetery.

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