In the heartfelt freestyle titled “Survivor’s Guilt,” Stogie T reflects on the profound impact of their untimely deaths and his own sense of “survivor’s guilt.” Riky Rick, a talented artist, took his own life in February 2022, while AKA met a tragic end when he was fatally shot in Durban in February this year. These losses have left Stogie T grappling with the painful realization that he wasn’t there for his friends when they needed him the most.
“Survivor’s Guilt. ‘Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.’ Psalm 51:10,” he solemnly conveyed in his rap, underscoring the emotional weight of his reflections.
A Tribute to Friendship and Remorse
The lyrics of the song delve deep into the emotions Stogie T is experiencing. “My little brother, was killed brother, helped mold his career, I got guilt brother. All Hip Hop brother, maybe we weren’t even friends, tried to be a mentor till that tragic end,” are words that echo with remorse and the haunting sense of missed opportunities to connect with his friends.
Honoring More Than One Loss
Stogie T’s freestyle doesn’t stop at commemorating Riky Rick and AKA; it extends to honoring others who left too soon. Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane, who passed away on the same night as AKA, and Costa Titch, who collapsed at Ultra in March this year, also find a place in his heartfelt tribute.
A Special Connection with AKA
It’s worth noting that Stogie T shared a special connection with AKA, even if it wasn’t always publicly acknowledged. In January, just weeks before AKA’s untimely death, he sought Stogie T’s opinion on his then-unreleased album, “Mass Country.” This gesture speaks to the trust and respect that existed between these two prominent figures in South African music.
Resonating with the Music Community
Stogie T’s emotional freestyle has resonated deeply within the South African music community. It has garnered praise and support from many of the industry’s biggest names, further highlighting the impact and importance of this heartfelt tribute.
In a time marked by loss and reflection, Stogie T’s “Survivor’s Guilt” serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the value of cherishing our friendships while we can.
The South African music scene will undoubtedly continue to remember and honor the legacies of Riky Rick and AKA, two artists who left an indelible mark on the nation’s music landscape. Until they meet again, their music lives on in the hearts of fans and friends alike.
