Organisers plan 20-minute tribute set dedicated to Riky Rick

Award-winning rapper Riky Rick passed away on 23 February after taking his own life. His annual Cotton Fest, which was originally scheduled to take place on 19 and 20 March, was moved to 23 and 24 April.

Alain Ferrier told Channel24 that the Boss Zonke hitmaker’s wife, Bianca Naidoo, has been working on a special tribute for the late rapper with one of his band managers.

“They will be doing a 20-minute tribute set on the main stage with key visuals. We [organisers] are trying to do it from a performance point of view, not too much from a mourning perspective, but more of a celebration,” said the 41-year-old festival director.

“From the festival perspective itself, our promise is to make sure that all of the things that Riky really was passionate about within the festival are done well and at 110%.

WHO WILL BE PERFORMING?

Festival-goers can expect performances from hip-hop and amapiano artists. The likes of AKA, Cassper Nyovest, Kabza De Small, Nasty C, Rouge, Tyler ICU, Lady Du and hip-hop legends Skwatta Kamp will all be performing on Saturday 23 April.

On Sunday 24 April, the likes of A-Reece, Big Zulu, Kamo Mphela, Shane Eagle, Uncle Waffles, Young Stunna, Mellow & Sleazy and Umlando hitmaker Toss will be performing.

Taking to Twitter, local rappers and hip-hop lovers have expressed their love for Riky Rick ahead of Cotton Fest.

“Riky knew what to tell us. He knew what to give,” wrote YoungstaCPT.

“The only reason I’m going to Cotton Fest is because I’m doing it for Riky. I loved that man,” wrote one tweep.

“First time the event [is] happening without you. It won’t be the same. Continue to rest easy big guy,” wrote another tweep.