REknowned and award-winning maskandi artist Mtshengiseni “Ndidane” Gcwensa, 39, died in a Dundee hospital yesterday after a long illness.
The popular star from Msinga had won nine South African Traditional Music Awards (Satmas) including best song of the year, best-selling album and best composer. He had also been recognised repeatedly in the Amantshontsho KaMaskandi Awards.
Gcwensa, also known as iThwasa Langempela, was part of the popular group Amageza Amahle.
Condolences from other musicians, political leaders, and his fans have poured in since yesterday, with some expressing disbelief that he was no more.
KZN arts and culture head Sibongile Nzimande said: “It is always a tragedy when we lose one of our legendary artists who helped preserve and promote KZN’s culture. Gcwensa’s passing is a huge loss to the music industry; his music was enjoyed by both young and old.”
Nzimande said a delegation from the department would visit Gcwensa’s family this week.
Satma founder Dumisani Goba said this year was a bad year for the traditional music sector as it had lost many stalwarts.
KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu said he was saddened by the “untimely death” of Gcwensa. The popular musician had made a significant contribution to the industry and many people loved him for his unusual, entertaining style.
“The province has lost one of its heroes, a man of the people, from whom we still expected a lot. It is not a good thing to lose a person as young and talented as Mtshengiseni.”
ANC provincial secretary Sihle Zikalala said it went without saying that the maskandi music genre had suffered a severe blow by losing “such an amazing talent”.
“We are deeply shocked by the death of Ndidane. His music kept all of us entertained. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and his supporters. The death of any artist disturbs us greatly,” he said.
DA provincial leader Zwakele Mncwango also sent his condolences to the Gcwensa family and the maskandi community.
“Gcwensa was a valued member of the music industry and his loss will be felt by all he leaves behind. He was a dedicated musician who always put his fans first, performing even when he was not well,” he said.
NFP provincial chairman Vikizitha Mlotshwa said he was shocked to learn of Gcwensa’s passing.
“I personally worked with him and I know him as a people’s person, with a jovial character, and we were proud of his achievements,” he said.
“To say Gcwensa was a larger-than-his-life character would be an understatement. He will always be remembered as a great artist, comedian or musician verified by many awards he won,” he said.
Mlotshwa remembered that when the late NFP politician Stanley Dladla died, Gcwensa, who was ill, came unexpectedly and said: “Although I am sick, I would not want to miss this opportunity to bid farewell to my brother.”
Gcwensa leaves his wife and children.