Johannesburg - There were tears and laughter at Ray Phiri's memorial service as videos of the internationally acclaimed musician were played at his memorial service on Thursday morning.
Many people had gathered at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, to remember the music icon. Among them were former Mpumalanga premier Matthews Phosa, members of his band Stimela, and MECs from the Mpumalanga provincial government.
Chikapa, as he was affectionately known, died last week at the age of 70 after a long battle with cancer.
Speaking at the memorial service his sister, Landiwe said Phiri wanted to make music for the world.
#RayPhiriMemorial a short video paying tribute of the late legend @ReporterStar pic.twitter.com/nIW5y09557
— Tankiso Makhetha (@Tankmaester) July 20, 2017
#RayPhiriMemorial Landiwe Phiri takes to the podium. Describes Phiri as an active individual who enjoyed cooking @ReporterStar pic.twitter.com/JFyhQDxa1j
— Tankiso Makhetha (@Tankmaester) July 20, 2017
The programme of events for the #RayPhiriMemorial underway at Mbombela Stadium. The service has just started @ReporterStar pic.twitter.com/HJq6pQbOpG
— Tankiso Makhetha (@Tankmaester) July 20, 2017
"When his teacher, as young boy, asked him what sort of music he wanted play, Ray said he wanted to make music for the world," Landiwe said.
"Ray was an active child who enjoyed cooking, which he learned from our father. Our father also taught him music at an early age and taught him to play the guitar," she said.
The memorial service has been organised by the premier of Mpumalanga's office.
Meanwhile, President Jacob Zuma has declared a special provincial funeral for Phiri.
Zuma, who lauded Phiri as a musical giant, said: "This is indeempd a huge loss for South Africa and the music industry as a whole."