THE people of Tshwane have lost yet another barcadi star.
Dj Pencil, whose real name is Samuel Moripe, from Atteridgeville West of Tshwane, died on Friday, 10 March, at Kalafong Hospital.
The 40-year-old died of Leukemia cancer.
He was known for his hit songs such as Suna Papa, Tshwara tshwara and Serope Ko Ntle.
His mother, Mpoele Moripe (65) told Daily Sun that her son battled cancer for eight years.
“I am not well at all. I have lost a lot. My son and I were very close,” she said.
She said it pained her to see her son in pain.
"He moved to his bedroom and was sleeping with me so that I can monitor him. I wasn’t sleeping, always checking up on him. Sometimes I would check if he is still alive,” the heartbroken mum said.
She said her son left her when she least expected it.
Tumi Moripe (36), Dj Pencil’s cousin, said the renowned DJ could not continue to perform because of the illness.
“The last time he performed was in December in Mamelodi, Tshwane,” she said.
“He was planning to develop artists in a project he was busy with,” Tumi added.
The family said they have not decided on the funeral arrangements as yet.
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Meanwhile, his colleagues in the music industry and followers were sending tributes on social media.
Deejay Dadaman wrote on Facebook: "Don't even know what to say this is heart Breaking.”
Fanicar Bila Bila King wrote: “Until his death, he was regarded as one of the greatest Bacardi assets whose contributions gave birth to the Amapiano sound.”
Evans Bangane wrote: “It has been an honour to have been part of your journey bro R.I.P Pencil Sammy Moripe.”
