Sheldon Tatchell, Legend’s Barber founder and Riky Rick’s (real name Rikhado Makhado) close friend, shared a heartfelt message on social media for Rick’s widow, Bianca Naidoo.
This post follows the announcement that the beloved CottonFest festival has ended due to the differences among the shareholders about the future of the festival.
Tatchell wrote: “Bianca, our hearts are with you. It’s heartbreaking to see CottonFest come to an end – a festival built with love, sacrifice and a dream far bigger than music.”
He added comforting words to assure Naidoo that even though the festival sadly ended, she should know that she has managed to keep the late rapper’s legacy alive, and she certainly did not fail in doing so.
“But please know this.. You didn’t fail. You fought for that dream with everything in you. You carried Riky’s vision with honour. You kept his legacy alive when many would’ve given up.”
Since the untimely passing of Rick in 2022, Naidoo has made sure that the festival continues to happen and created a platform for a lot of artists in SA.
While the festival was a platform for the youth, it was also a celebration of Rick’s impact on the music industry.
Following his post about supporting Naidoo as CottonFest came to an end, Tatchell also made another post urging South Africans to fight so that the festival can be brought back.
“Cotton Fest can’t end like this – not when it has meant so much to the youth of South Africa. So today, I’m putting my hand up.
“Ready to invest, ready to support Bianca, and to help bring Cotton Fest back to life. Some movements are too important to let die. We never die. We multiply,” Tatchell wrote.
His second post included a picture of the late rapper, during the event as he performed alongside a young boy.
In addition, many rallied behind the idea of investing and supporting Naidoo in any way that they can so that the festival can come back.
“Riky Saved Our Lives! Let’s Save CottonFest!” rapper lord script wrote.
“Wow! Shout out to you, sir. Please speak to the decision makers, end the era with a bang! Last one in his honour,” a fan commented.
