Johanneburg - Mampintsha’s celebration of life mirrored how he lived his life, not only as a renowned award-winning music artist but as a son, father, and husband to Bongekile “Babe Wodumo” Simelane.
Industry friends and family gathered in a lively memorial service at Bishop Dube’s church (eThekwini Community Church), where all the people who took the podium hailed him for his humility and the footprint he left in the entertainment industry.
Mampintsha, whose real name is Mandla Maphumulo, was 40 when he died after suffering from a stroke.
Afrotainment confirmed his passing, leaving scores of fans reeling in shock at his untimely death.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news of the untimely passing of the multi-award-winning artist Mampintsha. Born Mandla Maphumulo from Umlazi, KZN of Big Nuz fame passed on today, 24 December.”
The Gqom artist had been a household name in the past decade and built his name solidly as he collected many accolades in the entertainment space.
Both his father and father-in-law spoke fondly about how passionate he was about music and ensuring that many people got to hear and see his talent.
Mampintsha follows the death of his group member Sibusiso Khomo, fondly known as R Mashesha, who died in 2015, leaving Mzi ‘Danger’ Mkhwanazi as the only member left in the popular group.
The trio has shared multiple hits such as “Umlilo”, “Ngekhe”, and “Be There” with their fans.
Danger said that though he is not a talkative person, he was saddened by the passing of his group members, whom he had been working with for a long time.
“We were not talkative in the group. If you look at R. Mashesha, Mampintsha, and me, we preferred to stay in the studio and make music. We are thankful for the support that you gave us from day one until now. I also want to thank you, Tira and Afrotainment, and all the people that have worked with us.”
He went on to discuss their most recent song, “Ngekhe”.
“We argued a lot about Ngekhe with Mampintsha. Those who work with us know. It is hurting that all the soldiers are gone. At first, it was R. Mashasha, and it is Mampintsha.”
He vowed to keep the legacy of the Big Nuz alive by doing more and growing the name into an empire.
DJ Tira, real name Mthokozisi Khathi, also praised Mampintsha, saying that working with him was always a pleasure because he knew exactly what he wanted as a creative.
“You could say Mampintsha was a prophet because sometimes he would say things that did not even cross my mind. Mampintsha taught me that if you believe in something, focus on that thing and make sure it happens. So our friend is gone; we are going to cry, but we hope that his spirit lives in us, and we have work to do,” said DJ Tira.
His final send-off will take place on Friday at Durban’s International Convention Centre (ICC).
The Star