Riky Rick: Police opens inquest into the death of hip-hop star

As per Sunday World, Riky Rick was found by his management team at his home in Johannesburg north around 08:30 am on Wednesday 23 February.

The publication reports that the 34-year-old hip-hop star and rapper passed away en route to the hospital.

In a statement published by News24, Riky Rick’s family said: “Affectionately known as Riky Rick across the globe, he was deeply loved by his family, friends and the entire entertainment industry.”

“His love for family, friends and community is well known. Riky’s nurturing and developing of young musical talent is well documented and will forever be remembered,” concluded the statement.

Speaking to TshisaLive, SAPS Captain Mavela Masondo did not “confirm or deny” that Riky Rick took his own life on 23 February.

Masondo did confirm that the police have opened an inquest into the circumstances of the rapper’s passing.

In a suicide letter leaked to Sunday World on Sunday 27 February, Riky Rick’s message to his wife, Bianca Naidoo, read: “This pain is too much. I don’t want you to blame yourself for my life being unbearable.”

BIG ZULU’S TRIBUTE TO RIKY RICK 

Big Zulu and Riky Rick collaborated on Mali Eningi in November 2020. The song, which also featured vocalist Intaba Yase Dubai, has achieved over 20 million streams since its release. The song also won Best Collaboration at the 27th annual South African Music Awards (Sama).

In honour of the star rapper, Big Zulu released a tribute to him titled Lala Ngoxolo on Thursday 24 February. The track features Mduduzi Ncube and Siya Ntuli.

LISTEN TO THE SONG HERE