Legendary Musician SupaFrikaLegendary musician Henry Maitin, known as SupaFrika, in his early days as a young singer in the 1980s and now in his older age. Picture: Supplied

Waar Waas Jy?

Waar waas jy when SupaFrika was dominating the music scene in the ’80s and ’90s?

Waar waas jy when his songs were played in the taxis, shebeens, weddings and street corners — the kind of songs that brought people together without even trying?

For many South Africans, SupaFrika’s music was more than entertainment. Songs like Love Satisfaction, Let’s Go Shopping, When You Fall In Love and Shebeen Queen to name a few, became part of everyday life and created memories that still live on today.

Over the years, many fans have wondered what happened to the music star and where he is now.

Well, the good news is that SupaFrika is alive, and on Saturday, 9 May 2026, he was surrounded by love as fellow South African music legends gathered at his home in Eldorado Park.

The gathering was organised to celebrate his timeless music, his impact on generations of music lovers, and to remind him that although he no longer performs, he remains appreciated and remembered.

SupaFrika rose to fame after a studio concept developed by Tom Vuma and Selwyn Shandel at CCP Records helped launch his career. Picture: Supplied
SupaFrika rose to fame after a studio concept developed by Tom Vuma and Selwyn Shandel at CCP Records helped launch his career. Picture: Supplied
A cover edition of one of SupaFrika’s albums. Picture: Supplied
A cover edition of one of SupaFrika’s albums. Picture: Supplied

Recognition for SupaFrika’s Legacy

SupaFrika survived a shooting incident several years ago that left his right hand paralysed and affected his speech, making it difficult for him speak and to continue singing. Despite this, he continues to soldier on with life and be the best version of himself.

Among those who came to honour him were Bulelwa Arosi, who organised the event, alongside Condry Ziqubu, Pamela Nkutha, Papa, Sydney Pepe, Nomuntu Kapa, Vusi Jele and Volcano. Some musicians who could not attend sent gifts and voice notes.

To make the occasion even more special, SupaFrika also received a trophy designed by D&S Trophies owned by David Rengasamy as a token of appreciation from these legends.

SupaFrika, the man of the moment, beamed with pride and excitement as he held his golden trophy. Picture: Author's Own
SupaFrika, the man of the moment, beamed with pride and excitement as he held his golden trophy. Picture: Author’s Own
SupaFrika posed with his trophy designed by D&S Trophies, standing beside David Rengasamy. Picture: Author's Own
SupaFrika posed with his trophy designed by D&S Trophies, standing beside David Rengasamy. Picture: Author’s Own

SupaFrika’s words of gratitude

Overcome with emotion during the celebration, SupaFrika expressed his gratitude to the music legends who came together to honour and celebrate his legacy. This is what he had to say:

“Thank you very much. One day I will say a lot of things to you. I don’t have many words right now, but all I can say is thank you. Thank you very much,” said SupaFrika.

Bulelwa Arosi warmly kissed SupaFrika on the cheek as she expressed her joy at seeing him. Picture: Author's Own
Bulelwa Arosi warmly kissed SupaFrika on the cheek as she expressed her joy at seeing him. Picture: Author’s Own

Bulelwa Arosi on SupaFrika’s impact

Speaking about the event, Bulelwa Arosi explained why it was important to organise a special celebration for SupaFrika and honour his contribution to South African music.

“I feel that as artists, if we want to be loved, it starts with us by loving one another. SupaFrika gave us classics and gave us a lesson: ‘love is on our side.’ What does that mean? It means in whatever circumstance, you must put God first because God is love, and he sang this song during the time of oppression, not knowing that this was his assignment from God.

“God is love, and he sang about love, and that is why God saved him and made sure he gave him an angel of a woman who loves him unconditionally, and that woman for me is an inspiration that we learn from other women how to love. All I can say about the whole thing is it was short notice because we were just planning to come, see, and assess how he is and everything before we plan anything so that we know if we are doing donations, we know what we are buying. And there is an upcoming event that we will do in his name,” said Bulelwa.

A group photo featuring SupaFrika, his wife, Papa, and Condry Ziqubu. Picture: Author's Own
A group photo featuring SupaFrika, his wife, Papa, and Condry Ziqubu. Picture: Author’s Own

Condry Ziqubu hopes for SupaFrika’s comeback

Also reflecting on the event, Condry Ziqubu shared how special the celebration was to him and what it meant to honour SupaFrika in such a meaningful way.

“I am very happy about this event, and everything went well. We came to visit our brother SupaFrika, and I am glad everybody was here, as some of the musicians came and supported SupaFrika today. So I just hope and feel he will get better, and through the grace of God, we hope that one day we will see him back on stage performing with us,” said Condry.

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By Asanda Mbayimbayi

Asanda Mbayimbayi is an award-winning Lifestyle & Entertainment News Editor and Journalist celebrated for her dynamic voice in digital lifestyle, entertainment, and hard news journalism. Honoured with the Galliova People’s Hero 2025 Award for her authentic storytelling and powerful connection with audiences, she continues to redefine journalism with purpose, empathy, and impact. With an instinct for uncovering stories that resonate and a deep understanding of audience engagement, Asanda brings clarity, depth, and heart to every piece she crafts. Beyond the newsroom, she wears many hats — Researcher, Qualified Bible Teacher, Content Creator, Producer, Motivational Speaker, and Book Editor to name a few — using her creative and spiritual insight to inspire transformation through words. Whether leading editorial teams, producing meaningful content, or motivating audiences, Asanda stands as a storyteller driven by faith, purpose, and the power of narrative to connect and inspire.