Costa Titch, one of the most popular and influential Amapiano rappers in South Africa, died on 11 March 2023 at the age of 27. He collapsed twice while performing at the Ultra South Africa music festival in Johannesburg, and was pronounced dead shortly after. His sudden and tragic death has shocked and saddened his fans, friends, and fellow artists, who have paid tribute to his legacy and talent. But what exactly caused his death? Here is what we know so far.
A Rising Star in Amapiano
Costa Titch, whose real name was Costantinos Tsobanoglou, was born in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, to a Greek father and a South African mother. He started his career as a dancer, before switching to rap in 2016. He rose to fame in 2020 with his hit song Nkalakatha, which featured AKA and Riky Rick, two of the biggest names in South African hip hop. The song won the best collaboration award at the South African Hip Hop Awards 2020, and catapulted Costa Titch to the forefront of the Amapiano scene.
Amapiano is a subgenre of house music that emerged in South Africa in the mid-2010s, blending elements of jazz, lounge, and kwaito. It is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melodies, and distinctive dance moves. Costa Titch was one of the pioneers of Amapiano rap, infusing his lyrics with humor, positivity, and social commentary. He released his debut album, Made in Africa, in 2020, which received critical acclaim and commercial success. He followed it up with his second album, Mr. Big Flexa, in 2022, which broke the record for the most viewed Amapiano music video on YouTube with the song Big Flexa.
Costa Titch was also known for his collaborations with other artists, both local and international. He worked with Akon, the Senegalese-American singer and producer, on a remix of Big Flexa, which was named a Rising Record on BBC 1Xtra’s Rave Show. He also teamed up with Alfa Kat, C’Buda M, Banaba Des, Sdida, and Man T on the song Ma Gang, which earned him seven nominations at the All Africa Music Awards 2022. He was widely regarded as one of the most talented and versatile artists in South Africa, and had big plans for his future.
A Mysterious Collapse
On 11 March 2023, Costa Titch was performing at the Ultra South Africa music festival, one of the biggest electronic music events in the country. He was on stage with his friend and fellow rapper Phantom Steeze, when he suddenly collapsed. He quickly got up and continued performing, but collapsed again a few minutes later. He was rushed to the hospital, but it was too late. He was pronounced dead at 11:41 pm.
The cause of his death is still unknown, and the police are investigating the incident. A post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death, and the results are expected to be released soon. Some online speculations have suggested that Costa Titch may have suffered from a heart attack, a drug overdose, or a poisoning, but none of these have been confirmed or ruled out by the authorities. His family has asked for privacy and respect, while they try to cope with their loss.
A Legacy of Music and Joy
Costa Titch’s death has left a huge void in the South African music industry, and in the hearts of his fans. He was widely loved and admired for his music, his energy, and his personality. He was known for his infectious smile, his positive attitude, and his passion for entertainment. He inspired many people with his talent, his creativity, and his message of hope and happiness. He was a role model for many young artists, who looked up to him and his achievements.
Many celebrities and public figures have expressed their condolences and tributes to Costa Titch, including Akon, AKA, Riky Rick, Boity, Cassper Nyovest, Nasty C, and DJ Maphorisa. They have praised his music, his style, and his impact on the Amapiano scene. They have also shared their memories and experiences with him, and how he touched their lives. They have described him as a friend, a brother, a legend, and a star.
Costa Titch may be gone, but his music and his legacy will live on. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest Amapiano rappers of all time, and one of the most influential artists in South Africa. He will always be missed, but never forgotten. Rest in peace, Costa Titch.
