JOHANNESBURG – After going a complete redesign, friends and family of Robbie Malinga gathered at the Westpark Cemetery in Johannesburg on Tuesday afternoon for the unveiling of his new tombstone. The veteran music producer passed away from stage four pancreatic cancer on Christmas day and was buried early last month.
The initil 7-ton tombstone, which was erected on the day of Robbie’s funeral had to be removed after it drew sharp criticism on social media over a lack of resemblance to the music icon.
Robbie’s brother and family spokesperson, Bheki Malinga became too emotional when the redesigned tombstone was unveiled during an intimate ceremony attended by Robbie’s wife Ann, his son Robbie Jnr, family members and close friends.
“I’m too emotional to talk, but what I can say is that we are happy with the work. There is so much resemblance now especially the head,” Bheki said. The initial statue has been replaced with a half-body sculpture of the singer and a piano and a replica of all the awards Robbie has scooped over his last 20-year career, were also added.
Lebohang Khitsane, CEO of Bataung Memorials said they had to everything and make something that has more character and embodies Robbie’s life better.
“It took a week and half to complete the work with a team of six artists assigned to redo the face. I’m really happy with the outcome. We made a lot of changes so that it represents the life of a singer.”
Photo Credit – The Chronicle
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