The nation is in mourning.
Durban based entertainer, Mampintsha, of kwaito group Big Nuz has passed away.
Mampintsha (40), real name Mandla Maphumulo, is best known for the group’s hit Umlilo in the early 2000s. The song took the country by storm with everyone singing “uzungawothi”.
He was married to Wololo hitmaker, Babes Wodumo, real name Bongekile Simelane (28) and together they had one child born in 2021. They have been working on their marriage, as seen on their reality show, Uthando Lodumo.
He was part of Big Nuz with Sbu Khomo known as R Mashesha and Mzi Tshomela, known as Danger. R Mashesha died on 7 August 2015. Danger is last remaining member of the group.
The group has just reunited and released a new December banger album in honour of their late group member. The single Ngeke is already topping charts after it was released on 25 November.
The news of Mampintsha’s illness was confirmed in a statement released by Afrotainment on 22 December. It was reported that he was in hospital following a stroke after a performance with Big Nuz.
"The family asks that the public and media respect their privacy during this difficult time.
"We ask that you keep him in your prayers. Afrotainment wishes him a speedy recovery and we cannot wait for him to rock our stages again," the statement read in part.
West Ink Records confirmed his passing in short statement.
“Husband, father, musician and West Ink CEO Mandlenkosi Mampintsha Maphumulo has died. Details of his passing cannot be shared with the public.”
Read more | Fans react to Mampintsha’s drastic weight loss
The family and the label have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
“Details of the funeral and memorial will be confirmed.”
Tributes have started flowing in, with musicians like Dr Malinga sending their condolences.
In memory of Big Nuz group member Mandla "Mampintsha" Maphumulo, SAMRO sends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and industry colleagues.
— SAMRO (@SAMROMusic) December 24, 2022
Mampintsha will always be remembered for his immense contribution to the South African music industry.#Mampintsha#RipMampintsha pic.twitter.com/sSFJai04qV
Colleague and longtime friend DJ Tira also confirmed in a statement released on behalf of Big Nuz.
???? Rest in Peace Mampintsha mfowethu pic.twitter.com/QJVO4KsU8m
— Makoya Bearings (@DJTira) December 24, 2022
