Arts, Culture and Sport

South African Hip hop Legend HHP has died

Jabulani Tsambo, better known by his stage name Hip Hop Pantsula, shortened to HHP and his nickname Jabba, a veteran South African rapper has passed away at the age of 38. His death has sent shockwaves across the country, and tributes are pouring in.

Published

6 years ago

October 24, 2018

This Is Africa

South Africa, and the continent has lost a legend with the death of Jabulani Tsambo, better known by his stage name Hip Hop Pantsula, shortened to HHP (pronounced double “H” P), who has passed away at the age of 38.

Lerato Sengadi, the rapper’s wife and well known publicist confirmed the death to TimesLive.

“Yes, yes it’s true. I am with the family at the moment,” the paper quoted Lerato as saying.

The cause of death has not been confirmed yet, but there are reports that the artist committed suicide. The artist is also reported to have battled depression in the past.

Nicknamed Jabba, the veteran rapper performed in several languages, mostly in Setswana. HHP is one of the pioneering artists of the successful SA Hip-hop genre Motswako, and was one of the first South African rappers to achieve mainstream success. He influenced various artists and paved the way for the success of many rappers. HHP spotted Cassper Nyovest at a performance and featured him on Wambo Tsemba Mtho.

Read: The Reality of Suicide and the Tragedy of Stigma in Our Black African Communities

Jabba produced several albums which include, Introduction (2000), Maf Town (2001), Dumela (2009), Motswafrika (2011), and Motswako High School (2014) among others. He received numerous awards, which include MTV Africa Music Awards 2009 – Best Video (“Mpitse”) and SATMA Lifetime achievement Award 2017.

His death has sent the entire country and those who knew his work into a state of mourning. His contribution to Hip hop and the arts industry at large has been immeasurable, and he will continue to influence many upcoming artists.

Condolences and tributes have been flooding the Internet since his death was announced and confirmed.

Life is fleeting. Live it well whenever you can. Leave those around you ever better. Talk when you are going through stuff. Do not judge.
Thank you for the music HHP. #RIPHHP pic.twitter.com/XLLqELYdH2
— Khaya Dlanga (@khayadlanga) October 24, 2018

Devastated to hear the news of HHP’s passing. Condolences to his family. His contribution to music and his beautiful personality will be missed. #RIPHHP
— Gareth Cliff (@GarethCliff) October 24, 2018

Oh my God!! I'm heartbroken to hear about the passing of my friend HHP!!! I can't believe it!! 💔💔💔💔 My prayers are with his family and friends..
— The Guy (@MI_Abaga) October 24, 2018