THEIR songs bring comfort to grieving families and the funeral singers have now gained respect in their communities.
However Mapko Group, as the group calls itself, is not only about delivering soothing music.
Members of the group Matlhomola Mako, Nelisiwe Mtandana, Daniel Molefe and Charles Vena said they are concerned about the lack of respect shown by some mourners and they want to bring respect to funerals.
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They said funerals are no longer respected like before, with some mourners even dressing inappropriately.
“We also sing about how people should conduct themselves at funerals. Some people dress like they are going to the beach or a party.
“We know we have a right to wear what we like, but we also need to have boundaries. Women must not wear minis and men must not wear shorts,” said Nelisiwe.
The group, which is originally from Simunye in Bekkersdal, sings Afro-jazz and A capella and they also perform at birthdays and weddings.
“Our music preserves culture. It heals the souls of the bereaved and ensures respect is upheld,” said Nelisiwe.
The group also sings to bring about change in young people’s minds so that they don’t resort to crime and drugs.
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They appealed to local municipalities and business people to support them by donating musical instruments and funds so they can sing on international stages.
The group sang at a funeral on Thursday, 20 October and one of the mourners, Sipho Mathabela (56), said: “They are just awesome. Their music eases the pain.”
