Oupa Mafokate

Oupa “Makhendlas” Mafokate (22 December 1970 – 31 October 1998) was a pioneering South African Kwaito musician from Soweto, best known for the hit singles “Iminwe,” “O Skatata” and “Lefatshe Lee Kela Makhendlas.” He was one of the first Black artists to gain national Kwaito prominence under the 999 Records label, founded by his brother Arthur Mafokate.

Music career His second album, Jwaleng (1997), featured the socially-themed title track Otla shwela jwaleng (“Check out you party animal…”) as well as the single “Jealous,” both of which became staples on township dance floors.

Early life Oupa Mafokate, known by his stage name "Makhendlas", was a brother to Arthur Mafokate. He was born and raised in Chiawelo, Soweto.

Death On 31 October 1998, Mafokate was due to headline a concert in Tonga (now Mbombela). According to his label manager Mpho Makhetha, the event turned violent when a fan began harassing Mafokate’s crew. In the ensuing brawl, Mafokate “whipped out his gun and pumped three bullets into the troublesome man,” then, overwhelmed by grief and confusion, turned the weapon on himself and died by suicide at age 28. Makhetha later defended Mafokate’s carrying of a firearm as a response to the industry’s lack of security for township artists. Jammer 1998 Ampiki 1999

Singles & EP's

Jwaleng 1997 A Tribute To Makhendlas 1998