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Makazole Mapimpi: from rugby star to viral maskandi singing sensation on TikTok
Springboks rugby player, Makazole Mapimpi, stunned many by sharing his love for Maskandi and singing a popular Maskandi song.
Image: Instagram
In a surprising turn of events, Sharks and Springboks winger Makazole Mapimpi has showcased a talent that few knew he possessed: his singing voice.
The rugby star captivated fans on social media by sharing a video on TikTok where he effortlessly belted out 'Abathakathi' by Govozile, a popular Maskandi song, while seated in his car.
The clip has quickly gone viral, adding a new layer to Mapimpi's diverse skill set beyond the rugby pitch.
Maskandi, a traditional South African music genre predominantly associated with the Zulu people, is an expressive fusion of local melodies and Western instrumentation, featuring guitars, concertinas, and violins.
Often likened to "Zulu Blues", this genre weaves narratives of everyday life, social issues, and personal experiences - themes that echo Mapimpi's journey to stardom.
In the video, Mapimpi not only displays his impressive vocal range but also engages in playful banter with his detractors.
The lyrics resonate deeply with him, as they reflect themes of resilience and perseverance, qualities that have characterised his sporting career.
It is a light-hearted dig at those who doubted his potential and dreams.
His journey serves as an inspiration to many, embodying the very message conveyed in the song.
Growing up in Tsholomnqa village in Mdantsane, East London, Mapimpi's path to becoming a Springbok was paved with challenges.
Raised by his grandmother after the tragic loss of his mother, brother, and sister, he faced a stark reality that few of his peers would understand.
Unlike many of his fellow Springboks, he did not hail from a prestigious rugby school, making his rise to fame all the more remarkable.
Off the field, the determined winger has cultivated a flair for fashion, often sharing glimpses of his stylish outfits on his social media platforms.
His posts, dedicated to showcasing his unique "drip", reveal a personality eager to express himself beyond rugby.
The rugby season has been buzzing with excitement as South Africa prepares to kick off on June 28 with a match against the Barbarians at DHL Stadium as part of the Qatar Airways Cup.
In a show of confidence, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has named a strong squad, including Mapimpi, for the opening stages of the international season, retaining a mix of seasoned players and newcomers, all set to make their mark as the Castle Lager Incoming Series looms.
