Rapper Riky Rick Found Dead, Award-Winning Hip-Hop Star Allegedly Hanged Himself At Home

Rikhado Muziwendlovu Makhado, popularly known as Riky Rick died by suicide on Wednesday, Feb 23.

The 34-year-old Cape Town — Award-winning hip-hop rapper allegedly hung himself with a rope at his home in the early hours of the day.

In his last tweet at 03:20 on Wednesday morning, Rick, who was reportedly suffering from severe depression, wrote: "I'll return a stronger man. This land is still my home."

He was pronounced dead later in the day after being rushed to the hospital.

"Affectionately known as Riky Rick across the globe, he was deeply loved by his family, friends and the entire entertainment industry. His love for family, friends, and community is well known. Riky's nurturing and developing of young musical talent is well documented and will forever be remembered," said a statement released on behalf of the family.

The family spokesperson Sheikani Makhado confirmed the death and has requested privacy during this difficult time.

"The family is still meeting, and we will release a statement in due course. We ask for your understanding."

The Sama-nominated rapper rose to mainstream fame in 2015 following the release of his platinum-certified album, ‘Family Values’.

In 2019, Rick became the founder and owner of the record label Cotton Club Records.

In a 2020 interview, the rapper opened up about his struggle with "chronic depression" following the death of his father.

Rick said he found himself on a "destructive path".

"I was the type of person with a lot of symptoms of personal trouble," he told Slikour about his experience in therapy, after battling addiction.

He leaves behind his wife, Bianca Naidoo, their two children, his mother, and five siblings.