The family and friends of the late Kori Moraba say the music legend has left an indelible mark in the music industry. Moraba succumbed to COVID-19 in the early hours of Sunday morning at a Pretoria hospital after being hospitalised for two weeks.
He was popularly known for his song “tswang-tswang-tswang” which remains a song of choice at many weddings.
Setswana contemporary musician Kori Moraba passes on at age 73:
Moraba was one of many artists who kept many South Africans entertained during the hard days of apartheid. His wedding and love songs in African languages became an instant hit.
His family says they are devastated that he didn’t make it, as they were hopeful he would recover.
His daughter, Jolene Moraba, says her father was always welcoming to aspirant musicians.
“So many fans have lost a legend because he was a father to me and so many children as well that he mentored and raised as his own.”
She says despite his father being stopped by many people in admiration, he remained humble.
“My father was a very wise man. He’d always tell me the biggest gift you can ever give is to be humble, no matter your status.”
Watch: Today we pay tribute to Iconic Setswana contemporary musician, Ntate Kori Moraba who released the classic wedding song “Tswang Tswang Tswang” 50 years ago.
Ntate Kori Moraba’s passing marks the end of an era which created timeless memories that we will forever cherish. pic.twitter.com/CqtfTiEO3M
— Min. Nathi Mthethwa (@NathiMthethwaSA) January 4, 2021
Versatile musician
Moraba broke into the music industry in the late 60s and got his big break in the 70s when he joined The Minerals as a lead singer.
Long-time friend and fellow musician, Babsy Mlangeni, says Kori was a versatile, talented passionate musician.
The two performed together for the last time in Botswana over a year ago.
“It was a blow to me. He was a dear friend, a person that you worked with for so long; we’ll really miss Kori Moraba. But I’m just happy that at least he was instrumental in improving the music fraternity in this country.”
Due to COVID-19 regulations, there will be no memorial service for Moraba. He will be laid to rest in Lydenburg, Mpumalanga, on Saturday.
Condry Ziqubu pays tribute to the late Kori Moraba:
