Rikhado Makhado, better remembered as the rapper Riky Rick, has, through his family and foundation, posthumously released a song called Stronger which uses AI (artificial intelligence) and Riky’s own words taken from his social media posts to bring awareness to mental health issues.
The song was put together by Riky’s long-time collaborators Ganja Beatz, Audio Militia, and lyricist Lebo Machudi.
When asked about how he felt about using AI, Riky’s brother Ntobeko Mdaldla said, “I was scared at first hey, with this thing. I didn’t know what it was going to sound like, but it came out so great.”
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According to IOL, Riky’s mother Louisa Zondo hopes that the new track will inspire people and organisations to care for young people. “Our hope is that the Riky Rick Foundation for the Promotion of Artivism will inspire individuals and organisations to care for young people’s mental health and well-being, as well as participate in bringing about the changes we want in society —in essence, to stay shining.”
The foundation also aims to raise funds to support the efforts of individuals and organisations that promote mental well-being, and has partnered with TBWA, Hunt Lascaris and Sony Music Africa to create a place to respond to the late rapper’s call to care for the youth.
Says Riky’s wife Bianca Naidoo, “The message we’re getting out of this campaign will honour Riky’s legacy of promoting positivity. We hope it benefits his fans and anyone struggling with mental health.”
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