The late South African rapper Riky Rick’s highly anticipated posthumous album, Boss Zonke Forever, is finally set to drop. The album will be released on April 4, 2024, coinciding with the 10-year anniversary of his breakthrough album Family Values.
Riky Rick, born Rikhado Makhado, tragically passed away on February 23, 2022, at the age of 34, leaving behind an incredible legacy in the South African music industry. Fans have long awaited new music from the rapper, and his upcoming album promises to honor his life, talent, and influence.
A Carefully Curated Album
Riky Rick’s partner, Bianca Naidoo, recently shared insights into the album’s creation during an interview on 5FM, shedding light on how the project was carefully put together.
“We have sat with this for so long now, and I always go about feeling when is the right time. It’s been a while,” Naidoo said.
She emphasized that Riky had already put the album together before his passing, and their role was simply to mix, finalize, and add the right features.
“Riky put the album together, and we added or mixed. We included features which we thought were important, and the past few weeks have been a feeling of us being ready.”
Riky Rick
Her words reflected the deep emotional connection to the project, ensuring that it remains true to Riky’s vision and musical legacy.
Honoring Riky Rick’s Legacy
Riky Rick was not just a rapper; he was a visionary, a trendsetter, and an inspiration to many young artists. His previous album, Family Values, released in 2014, was a game-changer in South African hip-hop, blending deep lyrical storytelling with vibrant beats and a unique sound that made him stand out.
Now, ten years later, Boss Zonke Forever will serve as a tribute to his enduring influence. While details about the album’s tracklist and featured artists have not yet been revealed, fans can expect collaborations with artists who were close to Riky and who understand his musical journey.
A Reflection on AKA’s Legacy
As Riky Rick’s family and fans prepare for the release of Boss Zonke Forever, another beloved South African rapper’s legacy was recently reflected upon—Kiernan “AKA” Forbes.
AKA was tragically shot dead outside a restaurant on Florida Road in Durban on February 10, 2023, at the age of 35. His final studio album, Mass Country, was released 14 days after his passing.
AKA’s mother, Lynn Forbes, recently shared an emotional message about the album, emphasizing how it was completed before his death and remains untouched, exactly as he intended.
“Two years ago we released Mass Country, your final studio album, 14 days after you were taken from us. You had already finished it, every lyric, every beat, every detail chosen by you. You had already announced the release date, excited for the world to hear what you created,” she wrote.
She further described the album as AKA’s final gift to South Africa and the world:
“Mass Country is not a posthumous album. It is your final masterpiece, exactly as you intended to release it. Mass Country is your final gift to South Africa, to the masses of our country, to the world. Wrapped in your vision, sealed with your passion. This album doesn’t just hold music; it holds you. Your voice, your spirit, your energy, your love for your craft, South Africa, and the Megacy.”
Her heartfelt words emphasized that AKA’s legacy remains untouched, unchanged, and eternal.
The Impact of Posthumous Releases
The release of Riky Rick’s Boss Zonke Forever and the continued celebration of AKA’s Mass Country highlight the lasting impact these artists had on the South African music industry.
Posthumous albums are always emotional for fans, as they serve as both a celebration and a reminder of what has been lost. However, when done correctly—staying true to the artist’s vision—they become powerful tributes that keep their spirit alive.
Riky Rick
As April 4 approaches, fans of Riky Rick eagerly await the chance to experience his final musical offering, knowing that Boss Zonke Forever will serve as a lasting testament to his artistry, passion, and the love he had for his craft.
One thing is certain—both Riky Rick and AKA’s legacies are immortal, and their music will continue to inspire future generations.