Posthumous BET Hip Hop Awards honor Riky Rick

Rapper Rikhado “Riky Rick” Makhado continues to receive flowers for his passion and dedication to the music industry.

On September 30, 2022, the “Nafukwa” hitmaker, who died in February after a long battle with mental health issues, will be presented with the Global Visionary Award at the BET Hip Hop Awards.

BET announced via social media that the deceased celebrity would be honored for championing culture and artists.

Today, BET International announced that South African entrepreneur, rapper, and fashion icon Rikhado “Riky Rick” Makhado will receive the inaugural Global Visionary Award at the 2022 BET #HipHopAwards. BET #GlobalVisionaryAward pic.twitter.com/yNQsnxXzUV

23 September

The inaugural Global Visionary Award recognizes and honors culture champions, such as artists, DJs, and music industry professionals who have made pioneering efforts to expand hip hop culture on the global stage.

He will be the inaugural recipient of the award for his life, work, and lasting impact on mental health awareness and the illumination of available coping resources.

The awards committee views Rick as an innovator in a variety of cultural spheres and stated, “the world greatly benefited from his intuitive vision.”

“His dynamic and prominent voice in South African hip hop has earned him recognition as a highly esteemed artist who has left an indelible mark on the global music scene.

“He was a pioneer of independent music in South Africa. According to a BET statement, his independent endeavors achieved great success and inspired other artists to follow a similar path.

Bianca Naidoo Makhado, the deceased rapper’s wife, stated that the family was honored to receive the award in his name.

“This award recognizes his accomplishments and name. I am so proud that my husband’s work continues to positively influence the entertainment industry and that his legacy continues to inspire young artists. This award is a reminder of his devotion to his fans and culture.”

His mother, Louisa Zondo, described the award as a heartwarming occasion to commemorate her son’s life and his profound love for humanity.

“I view the award as recognition of the positive impact Rikhado’s music had on us. The award also highlights how Rikhado utilized arts and culture as an important and effective means for people to truly connect, care for, and see one another, according to Zondo.

Monde Twala, senior vice-president and general manager, Paramount Africa and Peer Lead, BET International, stated that one of his most influential and enduring legacies was changing the SA hip hop game to be more inclusive and encouraging young creatives.

“Riky Rick means so much to so many of us, not just South African hip-hop fans but people all over the world who appreciate his music,” Together with Bianca, we hope to honor Riky by championing a new generation of black creatives while commemorating his life and what he stood for.

The 2022 BET Hip Hop Awards, hosted by Fat Joe, will take place in Atlanta on September 30 and will air on BET (DStv channel 129) on October 5 at 3am and 7.30pm.