THE South African entertainment industry has suffered yet another great loss.
The industry lost musician Mthandeni Mvelase (56), who died on Thursday, 21 July.
In a statement, his family said in part: “The music industry has lost another iqhawe. The man behind the creation of some of the most sonic sounds in this country, including music of Township Fever and Muvhango, and a music director of some of the most celebrated on-stage performances such as How Long.”
Mvelase has worked with musicians including Jabu Khanyile, Khululiwe Sithole, Lindelani Mkhize, Sipho Sithole, Faca Kulu, Shabalala Rhythms, Themba Mkhize, Sibongile Khumalo and Zuluboy.
His death has shocked many people on social media, prompting others to convey messages of condolences and love to his family.
Actor Sandile Dlamini said he didn’t have the words to explain how he felt.
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“It is with sadness as when I wrapped shooting for today’s call that my very close talented, music producer, actor, friend &and a brother also wrapped living on this earth this morning. I lack words to explain how I feel but it was final call for him. Mthandeni ‘Nqawe’ Mvelase, may your soul rest in peace,” he wrote.
Facebook user Mpho Hlahla wrote: “Still shocked mgani wam Mthandeni. No words can explain my pain. Rest in power, my dear brother. Our paths will cross again.”
Muvhango’s Duma ka Nldovu shared a lengthy story of how he met Mthandeni.
“I met Mthandeni in 1986 when he landed in the USA with Mbongeni Ngema’s Township Fever. It was easy to notice him because he stood out. He was the only one who was involved in the creation of music for Township Fever, and was also a member of the cast. He was young, full of energy and massively talented. Something about him jumped at me. I explicitly remember him bringing on stage that Zulu energy that I had not seen since leaving South Africa. Pure unadulterated Zulu energy straight from the hostels or rural hinterlands of KwaZulu-Natal! I was immediately drawn to him,” he wrote.
