​We have learnt with utmost sadness about the passing of Ntate Steve Kekana on the 01 July 2021. Ntate is a legendary South African musician and songwriter born on 04 August 1958 in Zebediela in the then Northern Transvaal.

Ntate Kekana has contributed immensely to the music industry and the arts in general in South Africa. His legacy stretches from the late 70s when he recorded his first album until his final moments. He was always engaged in the development and promotion of South African music.

He has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry through the various positions in various structures across the whole value chain. Over and above his musical prowess, Ntate Kekana has also qualified as an advocate and he was a lecturer of law at the University of South Africa.  

Ntate Kekana used his talents and skills for the advancement of emerging and established artists in the country. He assisted many creatives with legal and business advice, empowering them to protect their intellectual property rights.

Ntate Kekana was appointed as one of the ambassadors of the Moshito Music Industry Conference and Exhibition, an initiative that was supported by the City of Johannesburg. It was at the launch where Ntate Kekana shared his idea about shaping the future of the South African music industry given the new challenges presented by Covid-19.  

We remember one of the profound things he said on the day was: “Music is the only thing that is found both on earth and in heaven”.

As a City that hosts many creatives who have benefited from Ntate Kekana’s contribution, we are grateful for his legacy. He is a legend that not only impacted the creative industry in the City of Johannesburg but in the country as a whole.  

We extend our utmost appreciation to the family of Ntate Kekana, to his wife, and the entire music industry for this monumental loss.

May the soul of Ntate Kekana rest in eternal peace.  

END.​​