Photo of Thekgo Raseala

Remembering Magesh: Mzansi celebs celebrate late Kwaito legend on 50th birthday

1d By Thekgo Raseala

Tokollo ‘Magesh’ Tshabalala, a Kwaito legend and lyrical genius, and founding member of TKZee, would have turned 50 today, 14 October 2026. In memory of the late Magesh, friends, group members, and industry peers shared a warm tribute, wishing him a happy heavenly birthday.

Also see: Watch| Memorial service of Tokollo ‘Magesh’ Tshabalala

The music icon died on 15 August 2022 at the age of 45 as a result of an epileptic seizure.

50 years of Magesh

The official TKZee X page shared a heartwarming birthday tribute to their late member. The video features South African celebrities who knew, loved, and appreciated the star, sharing warm memories and anecdotes of what he meant to them.

The clip began with original TKZee members Kabelo Mabalane and Zwai Bala sharing warm messages reflecting on who Magesh was.

“This man was extremely special,” Zwai commented in the video.

“He’s the one who believed in me,” Kabelo shared, reflecting on the group they started together called Two Slice.

Rapper and entrepreneur Siya Metane, better known as Slikour, and Kwaito musician Professor (real name Mkhonzeni Langa), both commended Magesh’s lyrical genius and impact on the genre.

Industry peers share beautiful birthday messages.

Also see: SA honours Tokollo ‘Magesh’ Tshabalala as he’s laid to rest

Magesh’s impact on younger generation of stars

The kwaito legend had a great impact on hip-hop stars that we know and love now, in their early careers, such as Khuli Chana.

“You collaborated with [a kid] from Mahikeng, and we made a classic song called Hape le Hape,” the rapper shared.

Cassper Nyovest also acknowledged the influence Magesh has had in his career as a rapper, saying:

“Definitely, Magesh is one of my biggest influences.”

Featured image: X/@blackguymfwethu

Also see: ’11 years later’: Kabelo Mabalane announces long-awaited music comeback

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