The South African music scene is reeling from the news that rapper Da L.E.S, a member of the iconic hip-hop group Jozi, has suffered a stroke. This unfortunate event has thrown a wrench into the group's highly anticipated reunion, which was set to take place at this year's Made in Mzansi Festival, scheduled for 28 and 29 September 2024 at Freedom Park in Tshwane.
Jozi, a group that has been a staple in the South African hip-hop scene for over a decade, was planning a comeback performance at the festival. The group, which consists of Ishmael (Ish), Lesley Mampe (Da L.E.S), Bongani Fassie (Bongz), and the late Crazy Lu (Luther Yakanawa Cohen), was set to reunite after years of separation.
The group's history is marked by both triumphs and tribulations. Ten years ago, the group split with Crazy Lu moving overseas and Bongani distancing himself from the group. Reports on the group's split stated that there was a dispute involving money with Muthaland label boss, Lance Stehr. At the time, Bongani and two friends, Gift Magubane and Tessa Nxumalo, were arrested following allegations that they stole studio equipment valued at R650k from Muthaland. Da L.E.S. and Ishmael were the two remaining members of the group.
Despite their past differences, the group had been in talks and convinced Bongani to agree to a reunion. "They were planning a reunion after a decade apart and have been in talks about sorting out their differences, making things work, and maybe performing at the upcoming festival. But that might not see the light of day as Leslie is still not looking good," a close friend said.
The friend added that Da L.E.S. is still in the hospital and might be there for some time. "He still needs prayers and his family is hoping he makes a full recovery," the friend said.
Ishmael, one of the remaining members of Jozi, confirmed that the group had been in talks about a reunion. "I look forward to being part of the festival," he said. "Yes, we had been in talks as Jozi, and we have never stopped being brothers; we just needed to mend a few broken issues in the relationship. We pray that Leslie gains his strength and recovers," Ishmael said.
Bongani, son of the legendary Brenda Fassie, also expressed his desire to continue making music, with or without Jozi. "I will never stop. At this stage, I don't want to talk about the group or Leslie's condition. Those close to us know," Bongani said.
The news of Da L.E.S.'s stroke has cast a shadow over the group's reunion plans. The Made in Mzansi Festival, which was set to feature over 50 performing artists, three art exhibitions, one film festival and food and craft markets at the museum, is now facing uncertainty.
Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on Da L.E.S.'s condition and hoping for a full recovery.
