Award-winning South African hip-hop artist Jabulani Tsambo formally known as HHP (Hip Hop Pantsula) has died at 38 years old.
The pioneer is best known for introducing the rap genre to his country, thus opening doors for many other South African rap artists. The family released a statement confirming his passing.
"It is with heavy hearts that we confirm that Jabulani Tsambo, known to his fans as Hip Hop Pantsula passed away today, Wednesday, 24 October 2018. At the time of his passing, he was 38-years-old. He is survived by his wife, his parents, two sisters, his son and nephew," the statement read. "The Tsambos request privacy during this time of mourning. Once all arrangements have been made, the family will make further communication."
While the cause of death has not been released, South African daily newspaper Sowetan reported that the star took his life. HHP reportedly suffered from depression.
The publication reported that the artist revealed he'd been struggling in his last hours.
"I'm depressed. I'm going out of control. I'm losing it," Tsambo reportedly said according to Sowetan.
South Africa’s ruling party, The African National Congress, released a statement expressing their condolences.
"The ANC joins millions of South Africans in paying tribute to this music icon who became a beacon of hope and inspired many artists, and individuals in our country," they said. "He left an indelible mark in the country and his inspirational music will continue [to] reverberate [in] our ears for many years to come."
We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and fans of the legendary Motswako Rapper Jabulani #HHP
#Jabba Tsambo. Robala ka kgotso #BOSSO. #RIPHHP
pic.twitter.com/rHhai694g1— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) October 24, 2018
Fellow artists and fans have expressed their love and respect for HHP on social media:
Just heard the most terrible news … another icon gone too soon. ????
— AKA (@akaworldwide) October 24, 2018
Bad News for HIP HOP TODAY.
— Da L.E.S (@2freshLES) October 24, 2018
If Hip Hop Music were a kingdom, then surely Jabulani Tsambo would be the proverbial King.
Flanked by able lieutenants who use their mics as weapons, they too shall carry on his legacy through song, the Motswako Republic lives on.#riphhp
#hhp
#motswako
#digitalart
#music
pic.twitter.com/nTbgjWc2nr— David Tshabalala (@SlayingGoliath) October 25, 2018
"Jabbaman, HHP better than, all of them, even the hip hop veterans????????????"
Thank you for the music and more specifically the memories. Still haven't seen a South African rapper who performs better on stage. We were blessed to have lived in a time that you were a part of. #RIPHHP
pic.twitter.com/AUZ9wP00v8— Lesego Semenya (@LesDaChef) October 24, 2018
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