(MENAFN) South African rapper Costa Titch has passed away while performing on stage during the Ultra South Africa concert in the Johannesburg suburb of Nasrec, according to police. The 28-year-old artist, whose real name is Costa Tsobanoglou, collapsed during his performance on Saturday evening. Videos of his concert circulating on social media show him performing when he appears to fall and collapse again. He had a major hit with "Big Flexa," which showcases the amapiano local subgenre of house music blending house, jazz, and lounge music. His sudden death is currently under investigation, and a post-mortem will be carried out to determine the cause of death.

Titch's death comes a month after another popular South African rapper, Kiernan Forbes, known as AKA, was assassinated outside a restaurant in Durban. The investigation is ongoing into what has been viewed as a likely contract killing.

The news of Titch's sudden death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians. Julius Malema, the leader of the radical leftist party EFF, expressed his condolences on social media with an image of a broken heart alongside Titch's name. The Southern African Music Rights Organisation also shared their sympathies, writing on Twitter, "SAMRO is saddened by the passing of popular rapper Costa Tsobanoglou, better known as Costa Titch. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and broader music industry." Rapper Da L.E.S also tweeted, "RIP, Costa Titch. Great talent gone too soon."

The music industry in South Africa has lost a rising star with the sudden and tragic passing of Costa Titch. Fans and fellow musicians mourn the loss of his talent, and the circumstances surrounding his death continue to be investigated.

MENAFN14032023000045014228ID1105774356