A promise cut short in Ekurhuleni
In the heart of township music culture, a young voice that was just finding its rhythm has been silenced. Kamohelo Mokoena, better known to his growing fan base as Freddy Da Vocalist, was killed in a robbery in the Ekurhuleni area after a night doing what he loved most: singing amapiano for local crowds. He was only 20 years old.
From the pubs of Duduza, where he had just performed as part of the Class of 2025 celebrations, Freddy was heading home with a friend when the unthinkable happened. According to police and community reports, a group of five armed men confronted them, demanding their phones and footwear. In the struggle, Freddy suffered a fatal stab wound to the chest and died on the scene.
A young talent with roots and dreams
Freddy’s journey began in local talent circles, where his soulful voice and energetic presence quickly won him respect from peers and locals alike. Starting his musical path as a teenager, he had already put out work, including an album titled Impilo Engcono, and was poised for greater opportunities. Family members describe him as respectful, focused, and brimming with potential.
In the tight-knit community of Duduza, where amapiano is as much a part of everyday life as the shared laughter of friends and family on street corners, many are struggling to come to terms with the loss. Social media posts from young fans and neighbours echoed grief and disbelief over the senseless nature of the attack, with hashtags calling for justice for Kamohelo and pledges to remember him in their own music journeys.
@dailysunofficialAmapiano artist Kamohelo “Freddy Da Vocalist” Mokoena (20) was tragically killed in Duduza, Ekurhuleni after being ambushed by thugs for his phone and takkies. The rising star had just entertained the Class of 2025 before his life was cut short. His family and the local music scene are heartbroken and calling for justice. Like, comment, and subscribe for more breaking news and real stories from Mzansi. #FreddyDaVocalist #Amapiano #Duduza #JusticeForKamohelo #CrimeInMzansi #Ekurhuleni #GoneTooSoon #MusicNews #DailySun #SouthAfrica♬ original sound – DailySunOfficial
Pain and calls for change
The killing has once again shone a spotlight on the everyday dangers youth face when out at night and has sparked broader conversations about safety, especially for artists who often travel between gigs late at night. Friends spoke of Freddy’s dreams of taking his music beyond local stages into the national limelight and described his recent performance as full of life, energy, and connection with his audience.
Police have confirmed a murder case is open and that investigations are underway to track down those responsible. Meanwhile, the families and fans are planning a memorial to celebrate his life and music, with local Amapiano DJs and singers expected to pay tribute.
In townships and cities across South Africa, amapiano has become more than a sound; it is a cultural movement that has given so many young voices a platform. Freddy’s loss is felt deeply because it came at a moment when so much was still possible. For those who knew him and those who were just discovering his music, his memory will live on through the beats and lyrics that first brought him into the spotlight.
Source: Briefly News
Featured Image: Apple Music
